The manhunt for a man suspected of a shooting on a Kentucky highway has entered its third day as more details have emerged about the rampage.
Joseph Couch, 32, is wanted in connection with a shooting that injured five people on Interstate 75 in London, Ky. on Saturday.
According to authorities, 30 minutes before he opened fire at the roadway on Saturday evening, Couch texted someone “I’m going to kill a lot of people. Well try at least.” He added he intended to turn the weapon on himself afterward.
The woman who received the message reported it to police, according to NBC News. No other information about the text recipient was released.
All of the victims are expected to survive. Two are in “good condition” at the University of Kentucky’s Albert B. Chandler Hospital in Lexington.
CHI Saint Joseph Health in London, Kentucky, also said it had treated and released patients connected to the shooting.
A dozen vehicles were hit in the shooting, including cars traveling in both directions on the highway in the southeastern part of the state.
An arrest warrant has been issued charging Couch with five counts of attempted murder.
Couch, a former National Guardsman, legally bought the gun and about 1,000 rounds of ammunition earlier that day, officials said on Sunday.
The gun — an AR-15 rifle — and Couch’s SUV were found on a service road shortly after the shooting. He is believed to have fled into a wooded area near the interstate known for thick brush, rugged terrain and deep caves. A phone with its battery removed was also recovered.
Police believe he fired down at passing traffic from an elevated position at three ridges.
A possible motive for the shooting has not been shared with the public.
On Sunday, at least 10 school districts in the state announced Monday classes were canceled while the search for Couch stretched on.
Kentucky State Police have since taken over the search operation while Laurel County Sheriff’s Office focuses on the criminal investigation.
Couch is described as a white male, 5 feet 10 inches tall and weighing approximately 154 pounds. Despite his gun being found in his car, officials said he should be considered armed and dangerous and should not be approached.
The state police have warned residents in and around Laurel County to lock their doors, keep porch lights on and monitor security cameras.
London Mayor Randall Weddle told WKYT-TV on Monday that people shouldn’t hesitate to call 911 if they notice something suspicious.
“With the amount of units that’s here, somebody’s going to get to you and they’re going to get to you quickly,” Weddle said.
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