Additional Coverage:
Body Believed to Be Highway Shooting Suspect Found in Kentucky
Authorities in Kentucky have discovered a body believed to be that of Joseph A. Couch, the suspect in a highway shooting spree that left five people injured.
The body was found in Laurel County woods on Wednesday by two state troopers and two civilians. Articles associated with the body led officials to believe it was Couch, though an official identification is expected Thursday.
The discovery came after a week and a half of searching, involving helicopters, drones, and search dogs. Vultures and a decomposing smell led the searchers to the body.
Couch had no prior criminal convictions. Before the shooting, he sent chilling messages threatening to kill people. A motive for the attack remains unknown.
Authorities are relieved to have found Couch’s body, bringing closure to the search. The investigation is ongoing, and the body will be processed to determine the cause of death.
The community of Laurel County is thankful for the end of the manhunt and hopes to return to normalcy.