A fatal shooting on New Year’s Day in Wilmington left James Bunting, 53, dead. Bunting was found with a gunshot wound on Constitution Boulevard at about 8:30 a.m. and was taken to Novant NHRMC, where he died from his injuries.

Investigators quickly identified a person of interest: 55-year-old Earl Hardy Jr., also of Wilmington, who was known to Bunting; the precise nature of their relationship has not been disclosed. Law enforcement described the arrest as part of a multi-state effort — Hardy was located and taken into custody at a Virginia rest stop later the same day, with the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation and Virginia State Police involved. Extradition to New Hanover County was initiated and the investigation remains active.

Are there details about Bunting’s movements that morning or witnesses on Constitution Boulevard who can help fill gaps in the timeline?