Several people injured in shooting along a highway in the US state of Kentucky

The sheriff's office in Laurel County, Kentucky, south of Lexington, reports that multiple persons were shot on Saturday close to Interstate 75 in a rural location. This incident sparked a manhunt for the culprit.

Gov. Andy Beshear stated on X: "We are aware of a gunshot on I-75 in Laurel County, Kentucky. At exit 49, law enforcement has closed the interstate in both directions. Kindly stay away from the area. More information will be provided as soon as it is available.

Both directions of the interstate are closed.

"I am receiving initial reports from the Kentucky State Police and our Office of Homeland Security — together we are actively monitoring the situation and offering support in any way possible," Gov. Andy Beshear posted on X.

Trooper Scottie Pennington of the Kentucky State Police stated on social media that the culprit "has not been caught at this time." People are being asked to stay inside. He continued, "As much information as it becomes available, law enforcement will provide it."

According to the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet, police have reported an active shooter incident, thus both northbound and southbound lanes of the interstate are closed from exit 41 to exit 59. “Please avoid the area. Seek alternate routes,” the statement said.

The state's Office of Homeland Security and state police have provided the governor with "initial reports," according to the governor.

“Together we are actively monitoring the situation and offering support in any way possible. Please pray for everyone involved,” he said in another statement on X.

Lexington is around 80 miles to the south of London, Kentucky.