An initial DNA test on the remains believed to be those of Joseph Couch, the suspect in the Interstate 75 shootings, was inconclusive due to extreme decomposition of the body. However, an autopsy confirmed that the cause of death was a self-inflicted gunshot wound. Couch, a former Army reservist, had been the subject of a manhunt after five people were shot and seriously wounded on Interstate 75. Authorities found the remains in deep brush in Laurel County, where the shootings occurred.
Couch had texted someone before the shootings indicating his intentions to harm people. At least 12 vehicles were struck and 20 to 30 rounds were thought to have been fired during the incident. The state chief medical examiner confirmed that the cause of death was consistent with a self-inflicted gunshot wound to the head.
A couple livestreaming the search for Couch’s body helped in the discovery. Personal articles and a gun found around the body led investigators to believe it was Couch. The couple will receive a $25,000 reward offered during the manhunt.
A further DNA test using material extracted from bone will be conducted to confirm the identity of the remains. The test is expected to begin on Friday and may take up to 48 hours to complete. Authorities are working to gather more evidence and information about the case.
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