Authorities believe they have found the body of Joseph Couch, the suspect in a deadly Kentucky interstate shooting that left five injured, after an 11-day manhunt that gripped the community.

The discovery of Couch's body in a rural area off Interstate 75 coincides with the ongoing aftermath of a shooting spree that injured five individuals and prompted a massive manhunt, affecting local schools and prompting community alerts. Investigators recovered an AR-15 believed to be used in the attacks, while Couch's alarming communication before the incident raises questions about his motive, further intensifying the community's concern over safety.

The body was discovered in deep rural brush in Laurel County, northwest of London, Kentucky, by two troopers and two civilians who had been searching for Couch. Articles associated with the remains led investigators to believe the body is indeed Couch's.

The investigation began after Couch allegedly opened fire on a stretch of Interstate 75, targeting a dozen vehicles, and injuring five individuals. The shooting incident prompted an immediate response from law enforcement, leading to the shutdown of the highway and the launch of a significant manhunt that lasted 11 days.

All five victims of the shooting were reported to be recovering in local hospitals, though details about their conditions remain limited. The authorities immediately circulated Couch's name, advising the public that he should be considered armed and dangerous during the search.

Prior to the shooting, investigations revealed that Couch had communicated with his ex-wife via text messages, expressing a chilling intent to 'kill a lot of people.' This disturbing revelation has left investigators probing the potential motives behind his actions.

During the manhunt, education institutions in the vicinity took precautionary measures, closing local schools while residents were urged to secure their properties and review security footage for any signs of Couch. The tense atmosphere and fear among community members underscored the urgency of the search.

In addition to the body, an AR-15, which is believed to have been used in the shootings, was found in the vicinity where Couch's body was discovered. This piece of evidence may provide further insights into the tragic events that transpired along the interstate.

Authorities stated that the motive for the shootings remains under investigation. As the search for answers continues, the community is grappling with the impact of the violence and the safety measures needed to prevent such an incident from occurring in the future.

Couch had previously served nearly six years in the Army Reserve as a combat engineer. His military background adds another layer of complexity to the ongoing investigation.

The efforts by law enforcement and community volunteers during the manhunt reflect the deep concern for public safety in the wake of Couch's actions. Although the immediate threat may have been addressed with the discovery of his body, the community continues to seek closure and understanding regarding this tragic incident.