Several people were shot near Interstate 75 in Laurel County, Kentucky, on September 8, 2024, according to reports from CNN and the Laurel County Sheriff’s Office. The incident has prompted a significant law enforcement response, with authorities urging residents to stay indoors and avoid the affected area.
Incident Overview
The shooting occurred near mile marker/Exit 49 on I-75, causing the highway and U.S. 25, located nine miles north of London, to be closed as a result of the active shooter situation. The Kentucky State Police Trooper Scottie Pennington confirmed that multiple individuals had been injured in the shooting.
In response to the ongoing situation, Pennington advised the public via social media to remain inside their homes and avoid the area. “The suspect has not been apprehended at this time,” Pennington said. Law enforcement officials are working to provide updates as more information becomes available.
Authorities and Public Response
Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear has also urged residents to steer clear of I-75. In a post on X (formerly Twitter), he wrote, “Kentucky, we are aware of a shooting on I-75 in Laurel County. Law enforcement has shut the interstate down in both directions at exit 49. Please avoid the area. We will provide more details once they are available.” Beshear emphasized that security forces are closely monitoring the situation and working to manage the response effectively.
Earlier in the day, President Joe Biden renewed his call for stronger gun control measures following a separate shooting incident at a school in Georgia. Biden reiterated his demand for an assault weapons ban, highlighting the ongoing need for Congress to take action on gun violence. “I’d like to say a few words about the school shooting yesterday,” Biden said during remarks at a solar energy manufacturer in Westby, Wisconsin. He urged Congress to act decisively, particularly criticizing Republican leaders for their resistance to stricter gun control legislation.
Ongoing Investigation
The investigation into the Kentucky shooting is ongoing, with authorities working to locate the suspect and determine the circumstances surrounding the incident. Residents are advised to stay updated through official channels and adhere to guidance from law enforcement to ensure their safety.
(With Agency Inputs)