LAUREL CO., Ky (WTVF) — Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear announced Friday afternoon that the body of accused interstate-shooter Joseph Couch has been identified through DNA extracted from bone.
Couch was believed to be on the run since the shootings almost two weeks ago in Laurel County, until a pair of Youtubers took it upon themselves to search for him and actually stumbled upon the body in deep brush behind exit 49 in Laurel County.
Officials found his clothes along with an AR-15 and ammunition nearby. The unsuspecting pair that found him qualify for the cash reward.
Authorities confirmed the cause of death to be a self inflicted shot to the head. The official autopsy report will be released after toxicology results return.
“We appreciate everyone involved in the search and are grateful no one else has been hurt,” Beshear said.
“I appreciate the medical examiner’s office and our crime lab personnel for prioritizing this case so that the citizens of Laurel County can begin their journey to healing and recovery, and the commonwealth can rest easy,” KSP Commissioner Burnett said. “This manhunt was the biggest team effort I have seen in my almost 30-year law enforcement career. We will forever be grateful for the assistance and resources provided by our local, state and federal partners.”
Couch was accused of shooting five people on September 8th on Interstate 75 in Laurel County, Kentucky. The Laurel County Sheriff’s Office will continue to lead the investigation.
Fostering Hope provides Christmas for kids in foster care. I'm delighted to see Fostering Hope expand this year to expand their reach to now include kids in Foster care in metro AND foster kids in East TN hard hit by Helene.
-Bree Smith
