An initial DNA test on remains believed to be those of Joseph Couch, the suspect in the Interstate 75 shootings, was inconclusive, but an autopsy confirmed the cause of death was a self-inflicted gunshot wound. The soft tissue DNA test was inconclusive due to extreme decomposition, and further testing with material extracted from bone will be completed. Couch, a former Army reservist, had been the subject of a manhunt after five people were shot on Interstate 75. Authorities found his remains in deep brush in Laurel County, where the shootings occurred.
The autopsy revealed the cause of death as a self-inflicted gunshot wound to the head. A couple livestreaming the search for Couch’s body helped in the effort, and personal articles and a gun around the body led investigators to believe it was Couch’s. The couple will receive a $25,000 reward for their assistance. The DNA test from bone is expected to begin soon.
Couch had texted someone prior to the shootings, saying he was going to kill a lot of people. At least 12 vehicles were struck and 20 to 30 rounds were thought to have been fired during the incident. The discovery of Couch’s remains brings closure to the investigation and confirms his involvement in the shootings.
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