Now, the 12-day manhunt has ended, and many people in Laurel County slept a little better last night knowing Couch is no longer a threat.

The body found near exit 49 in Laurel County on Wednesday afternoon has been positively identified by officials as Laurel County shooting suspect Joseph Couch.

Dr. Ralston also noted that the cause of death was consistent with a self-inflicted gunshot wound to the head, although the official autopsy report awaits toxicology results.

Officials are working to confirm the identity. It was not clear if the discovery was related to the shooting this month that led to an intense manhunt.

The body found Wednesday near the Kentucky highway where a gunman opened fire Sept. 7 has been identified as the suspected shooter, Joseph A. Couch, officials said on Friday.

Gov. Andy Beshear said the state police crime lab and Kentucky's chief medical examiner had identified the body found near exit 49 on I-75 Wednesday who was suspected to be Joseph Couch.

Gov. Andy Beshear said the state police crime lab and Kentucky's chief medical examiner had identified the body.

DNA extracted through bone marrow confirmed the body found earlier this week was Joseph Couch, who has been accused of shooting five people on the interstate.