Crime
Suspect Joseph Couch purchased AR-15 style rifle today with 2000 rounds
Couch is still at large ans consider armed and dangerous.
Authorities in Laurel County, Kentucky, are investigating a concerning report involving a man named Joseph A. Couch.
According to scanner traffic, Couch, a former military member, has made threats of violence, stating his intention to “kill a lot of people today.”Couch, a 32-year-old resident of Woodbine, Kentucky, is believed to have purchased an AR-15 rifle and approximately 2000 rounds of ammunition this morning.
Law enforcement agencies are actively working to locate Couch and assess the credibility of his threats. The public is urged to be vigilant and report any suspicious activity to local authorities immediately.
Joseph A. Couch, is a Person of Interest in the shooting that occurred at the Exit 49/KY-909 area.
If you have any information regarding the whereabouts or location on this individual please contact the London-Laurel County 911 Center by calling 911 or 606-878-7000.
DO NOT ATTEMPT TO APPROACH
Joseph A. Couch is a 32 year old white male approximately 5’10 weighing approximately 154lbs.
Authorities are investigating a mass shooting incident that occurred along Interstate 75 in Laurel County, Kentucky. According to reports, an unidentified individual opened fire from an elevated position, targeting vehicles traveling on the highway.
Multiple cars were struck by gunfire, resulting in at least five confirmed victims. Emergency responders have reported that several of the victims sustained injuries after being shot through their vehicle windshields.
The suspect remains at large, and law enforcement agencies are actively searching for the individual responsible for the attack. Interstate 75 is currently closed in both directions in the affected area, and motorists are urged to avoid the area and seek alternative routes.
Updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
Crime
Security guard Yahaira Melendez charged with murder after shooting inside IHOP restaurant in Center City Philadelphia
PHILADELPHIA, PA — A security guard has been arrested and charged with murder following a fatal shooting at a Center City IHOP over the weekend that left a 43-year-old man dead.
The incident occurred shortly after 11 p.m. on Saturday at the IHOP located in the 1300 block of Walnut Street, according to the Philadelphia Police Department.
When officers arrived, they discovered a man suffering from a gunshot wound to the head. The victim, who police say was unhoused, was transported to Jefferson Hospital, where he was later pronounced deceased.
Investigators report that the victim had been causing a disturbance inside the restaurant prior to the shooting. As security personnel escorted him outside, he allegedly turned and spat on one of the guards.
That guard, identified as 38-year-old Yahaira Melendez, allegedly responded by drawing her firearm and shooting the victim once in the head.
Police say preliminary findings indicate the victim was not armed at the time of the incident.
Melendez, a mother of three, was taken into custody and has been charged with murder and related offenses.
In a statement Melendez’s family expressed shock and disbelief over the situation, writing in part:
“We are shocked and devastated by the tragic events that occurred at the IHOP while she was working security. We know she would never harm anyone unless she felt she had no other choice to protect herself or others.”
The shooting has left nearby workers and residents shaken.
“Escalation — where was the escalation?” asked Karr Anderson, who works next door to the restaurant. “Security guards need to know how to withhold, how to show restraint.”
Philadelphia Police continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the shooting, including whether proper security protocols were followed and what led to the use of deadly force.
Authorities have not yet released the identity of the deceased pending family notification.