Copper wire thieves leave Louisville interstates in the dark while costing lives, millions in repairs

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) — Copper wire thieves have stripped electrical panels from interstate lights across Jefferson County, leaving major roadways dangerously dark.

While the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC) has installed solar-powered lights in some areas, a lot of work still remains to restore proper lighting on the interstates.

"It's sad they don't have lights," said local resident Tasha Vincent. "They need to fix it."

KYTC has shared a photo of a suspect believed to be involved in the thefts, along with an image of a homemade tool used to cut wires. In addition, the transportation cabinet has offered rewards in finding the thieves.

One of the hotspots for the copper thefts is the I-64/I-264 interchange near the Sherman Minton Bridge.

On Monday night, just after sunset, the area remained pitch black, a direct result of the thefts.

"For years, the lights have been going out and not being taken care of," said driver Julius Cushenberry. "You can't see the lines on the road, and it's difficult during bad weather."

The lack of lighting has led to tragic consequences on area interstates.

In May, 30-year-old Bradly Stobbs was struck by multiple vehicles while crossing I-65 near Arthur Street in Louisville. His body wasn’t discovered for eight hours. At the time, no working lights illuminated that section of the interstate.

To combat the issue, KYTC has invested $200,000 to install solar-powered lights at four intersections. The wires for these lights are inaccessible from the ground, offering better protection against theft.

However, the problem persists. Documents and photos sent to WDRB reveal that thieves have stolen miles of copper wire, often returning to strip newly replaced cables just weeks after repairs.

"We need some way to have lights out there," Cushenberry added.

The KYTC estimates it will cost more than $1 million to replace the stolen copper wire. Repairs are only made as funding becomes available.

In 2023, WDRB highlighted the severe lack of interstate lighting from Fern Valley Road to I-264.

A KYTC email in response admitted, "I hate to say WDRB was right."

The ongoing thefts not only strain state resources but also pose a significant safety hazard for drivers navigating Louisville’s unlit interstates.

KYTC’s solar-powered solution is a step forward, but much more is needed to fully address the issue.

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