A body found early Wednesday afternoon, near the site of the exit 49 interstate shootings in Laurel County, has now been acknowledged as very likely to be that of the primary suspect, Joseph Couch.
Couch’s body was apparently discovered by private citizens who videotaped their hunt for the suspect on YouTube video. The couple have around 13,500 subscribers on their “Hatfield & McCoys Museum Adventures” YouTube page. According to authorities, they will receive $25,000 in reward money for finding the body. The graphic video included a shot of what’s believed to be Couch’s decomposing body, and commentary regarding the buzzards in the area feeding on it. The site is operated by Fred & Shelia McCoy from Pikeville.
The couple have recorded and documented their search for the suspect on the YouTube channel since the manhunt began.
The body is now in Frankfort for an official cause of death and DNA confirmation.
The discovery concludes a nearly two-week search for the man who opened fire on interstate 75 traffic in Laurel County, injuring 5 people on September 7, 2024.
