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.
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.