Truck sought in Robeson principal shooting

Authorities are looking for a pickup truck in the shooting Thursday morning of a middle school principal who was shot in the face while driving to work.

Robeson County Sheriff Kenneth Sealey said Friday that investigators are looking for an extended-cab, tan pickup truck with a long bed that could be either a Toyota, Nissan or Mazda.

He did not provide any other details about the vehicle. Sealey urged anyone who might have information about the shooting to contact the sheriff's office at 910-671-3100.

James Hunt was driving on a rural road a few miles from Fairmont Middle School at about 7 a.m. Thursday when he was hit by a shotgun blast fired from another vehicle.

Authorities and school officials have not commented on a possible motive for the attack.
Hunt, who is in his first year as principal, suffered serious injuries to much of his face and a hand and had to undergo surgery.

Robeson County school system spokesman Al Kahn said the principal "was in a fair amount of pain, but he is resting."

Late Thursday, Hunt sent a message from his hospital bed to students and staff at his school.

School system student services director Brenda Deese said James Hunt sent the message "2-12," which is a reference to the book "2-12: The Extra Degree."

Hunt uses the book to inspire his school community, and it means he is going to be all right, Deese said.