"We would like to thank everyone who has called in information," said LaFountain, adding that the widespread community assistance has helped officials with their ongoing investigation. "Anything (you) feel is suspicious, please call."

Police are also asking residents to watch for Manor's large truck, which bears a registration number of 35652JP and has a yellow light on top.

LaFountain advises that the original license plate may have been changed since the truck disappeared, and warns residents not to approach the vehicle themselves but report any possible sightings of the missing pickup.

"Anyone seen with the truck should be considered armed and extremely dangerous," Smith warned. "The murder weapon used to shoot Mr. Manor has not been recovered."

family devastated

Earlier in the day, family and friends of murder victim Darcy Manor pleaded with the public for any information that could help police.

"As you all know, our family suffered a horrible tragedy Thursday evening. We are pleading that anyone who has information, please contact the New York State Police," said Alan Cardin, the 35-year-old's uncle. "He was a great nephew. You couldn't have asked for a nicer guy. This is just absolutely crazy. There's no reason for it.

"This family needs to close this thing. If the (culprit) has a heart, please come forward. Give this thing up."

As Cardin pleaded with the community, sobbing family and friends of the devoted family man filled the Mooers Town Hall as they awaited an update on the investigation by State Police, who have been coordinating their extensive search efforts from the local fire station.

A steady stream of about 70 distraught family members packed into the Town Hall as officials addressed them and the media.

Only a few miles from the crime scene, devastated family and friends gathered at his residence, where his wife, Heather, and two sons, Jake and Evan, were attempting to cope with their sudden and unexpected loss.

"He was a pillar to not only his wife and two sons, but to his family, friends and the community," Cardin said.

"We were all shocked," said Lorna Cordel, who lives in Florida but had come home for a two-week vacation when her cousin's body was found murdered.

"It's like a dream, you think you're going to wake up. It just doesn't seem real," said Manya Dupree, Manor's aunt.

The murder has not only shocked family, friends and neighbors, but the many Northern Adirondack Central School children who suddenly lost their beloved bus driver.