Crime
Body found in Laurel County identified as I-75 shooting suspect Joseph Couch, Governor Andy Beshear Confirms
The identification was confirmed through DNA analysis conducted by the state medical examiner’s office and crime lab.
FRANKFORT, Ky. (Sept. 20, 2024) – Governor Andy Beshear announced today that the unidentified body found in Laurel County has been positively identified as Joseph Couch, the suspect accused of shooting five people on Interstate 75 on September 7th.
The identification was confirmed through DNA analysis conducted by the state medical examiner’s office and crime lab.
“We appreciate the efforts of everyone involved in the search and are relieved that no one else was harmed,” said Governor Beshear. “We will continue to support those injured and the Laurel County community as they recover from this tragic event.”
The body was discovered in the deep brush behind exit 49 in Laurel County on September 18th. Personal effects and a weapon found at the scene were consistent with Couch.
Due to the advanced state of decomposition, initial soft tissue DNA testing was inconclusive. However, bone samples were successfully used to obtain a positive identification. “I commend the medical examiner’s office and KSP crime lab for their diligence and expertise in securing this identification,” said Dr. Ralston. “This brings closure to a tragic situation.”
KSP Commissioner Burnett praised the collaborative efforts of numerous agencies involved in the manhunt, calling it one of the largest team efforts he has witnessed in his career. “We are eternally grateful for the assistance and resources provided by our local, state, and federal partners,” he said.
Yesterday, Dr. Ralston released the preliminary cause of death as a self-inflicted gunshot wound to the head. The official autopsy report will be available upon completion of toxicology testing.
The Laurel County Sheriff’s Office will continue to lead the investigation into the Interstate 75 shooting.
ANDERSON, IN — A tragic incident outside an Anderson nightclub early Sunday morning resulted in the death of a 26-year-old woman and left two others injured following a shooting and subsequent vehicle-related accident.
The deceased has been identified as Dayla Swain, 26, according to the Marion County Coroner’s Office.
The Anderson Police Department (APD) responded to reports of gunfire around 3 a.m. on Sunday, February 4, at Sonny Ray’s, located at 1536 S. Madison Avenue.
Upon arrival, officers discovered that shots had been fired outside the establishment, striking two women.
Swain was found lying in the roadway near the scene, critically injured. Another female victim was located in front of a nearby residence, also suffering from gunshot wounds.
Swain was transported to a hospital in Indianapolis, where she later succumbed to her injuries. The second gunshot victim was taken to a local hospital and is currently receiving medical care.
During the chaotic aftermath of the shooting, a third woman was reportedly struck by a vehicle.
According to police, she later checked herself into a nearby hospital for treatment. Her condition has not been disclosed.
At this time, no arrests have been made, and the investigation remains active.
Detectives are working diligently to gather evidence, review surveillance footage, and interview potential witnesses.
The Anderson Police Department urges anyone with information related to this case to contact Detectives Brett Webb or Travis Thompson at (765) 648-6731. Anonymous tips can also be submitted through Crime Stoppers.
Further updates will be provided as the investigation progresses.