FRANKFORT, Ky. — Kentucky’s Chief Medical Examiner Dr. William Ralston has positively identified the remains found in Laurel County as those of Joseph Couch.
What You Need To Know
- Kentucky's state medical examiner positively identifies remains as those of Joseph Couch
- Couch is accused of shooting five people on Interstate 75 on Sept. 7
- The body was so decomposed a DNA test using bone was needed
- The official cause of death was a self-inflicted gunshot wound to the head
Ralston and the state police crime lab used DNA taken from a bone to identify Couch.
“We appreciate everyone involved in the search and are grateful no one else has been hurt,” said Gov. Beshear. “We will continue to be there for those injured as well as the Laurel County community as they recover from this tragic situation.”
Couch is accused of shooting five people on Sept. 7 on Interstate 75 in Laurel County. Kentucky State Troopers, along with Fred and Sheila McCoy, found his body in deep brush behind exit 49. Items found with the body were consistent with Couch.
Ralston announced on Thursday, the cause of death was a self-inflicted gunshot wound to the head, but because the body was so decomposed, a DNA test was needed to positively identify the remains.
“I appreciate the medical examiner’s office and our crime lab personnel for prioritizing this case so that the citizens of Laurel County can begin their journey to healing and recovery, and the commonwealth can rest easy,” KSP Commissioner Phillip Burnett said. “This manhunt was the biggest team effort I have seen in my almost 30-year law enforcement career. We will forever be grateful for the assistance and resources provided by our local, state and federal partners.”