Kentucky authorities are responding to an active shooter situation near Interstate 75 in Laurel County, Kentucky, according to the Laurel County Sheriff’s Office and local reports.
The suspect was still at large as of Saturday evening. The exact number of victims and the severity of the injuries are unknown at this time.
The incident began Saturday night, with reports of gunfire targeting vehicles on I-75 in Laurel County. Kentucky State Police said the shooting began shortly before 6 p.m., about nine miles outside the city of London. The shots were reportedly fired from a wooded area adjacent to the highway.
Kentucky, we are aware of a shooting on I-75 in Laurel County. Law enforcement has closed the highway in both directions at Exit 49. Please avoid the area. We will provide more details as they become available.
— Governor Andy Beshear (@GovAndyBeshear) September 7, 2024
Gov. Andy Beshear confirmed the situation in a message on X, saying: “Kentucky, we are aware of a shooting on I-75 in Laurel County. Law enforcement has closed the interstate in both directions at Exit 49. Please avoid the area.”
In a follow-up statement, Beshear added that he was receiving “initial reports” from the state police and the Office of Homeland Security. “Together, we are actively monitoring the situation and offering our support in any way we can. Please pray for everyone involved,” the governor said.
A large-scale police response is underway, with a perimeter established around the shooting scene. I-75 remains closed in both directions at Exit 49.
London Mayor Randall Weddle advised residents and travellers to avoid the area and use alternative routes.
This is a developing story and will be updated as information becomes available.
