'Numerous persons' shot near highway in Kentucky

US police tape
A shooter has fired at multiple vehicles on a highway in Kentucky, officials say. -AP

Police have reported an "active shooter situation" near Interstate-75 in London, Kentucky, where "numerous persons" have been shot in traffic.

The incident happened 14km outside of London, when officers were called for reports of multiple vehicles being fired at on Interstate 75 in Laurel County, multiple media accounts said. The shots were reportedly coming from a wooded area or an overpass.

"Please avoid I-75 around Ext 49. Until further notice! Use alternative route do not be any where in that area," London Mayor Randall Weddle said on Facebook.

Police officials said the suspect had not been caught. The interstate is shut down in both directions.

Kentucky state Trooper Scottie Pennington wrote on Facebook: "The suspect has not been caught at this time and we are urging people to stay inside."

Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear wrote on X: "Kentucky, we are aware of a shooting on I-75 in Laurel County. Please avoid the area. We will provide more details once they are available."

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.— Governor Andy Beshear (@GovAndyBeshear) September 7, 2024

He also asked that residents, "Please pray for everyone involved."

London is a small city of about 8000 residents, northwest of the state capital Frankfort.