A group of cyclists known as the Carolina Brotherhood stopped in Knightdale on Wednesday, June 21, to pay tribute to Officer Ryan Hayworth of the Knightdale Police Department, who lost his life while on duty on October 17, 2021. The Knightdale Fire Department hosted the rest stop.
Founded in 2010 by two Charlotte (NC) firefighters, the Carolina Brotherhood is a 501c3 charitable organization composed solely of emergency responders and their families from across North and South Carolina. The organization has now grown to include over 100 emergency responders who have participated over the last decade. Their mission is to offer financial and emotional support to the families of emergency responders who get sick, injured, or killed while on duty.
“We are honored to support the Carolina Brotherhood riders by hosting the rest stop here in Knightdale,” said Jessica Day, Mayor of Knightdale. “Their acknowledgment and honoring of Officer Hayworth mean much to our community. It sends a powerful message that his ultimate sacrifice will never be forgotten, and his legacy will inspire future generations.”
The ride is not only an exciting cycling event but also an opportunity to continue to raise awareness. The stop at the Knightdale Fire Department offered cyclists a chance to recharge, refuel, and rejuvenate during their journey.
“Here in Knightdale, seeing an event that brings in so many cyclists holds profound significance for our community, serving as a powerful tribute to the brave first responders and their families,” said Rachel Morris, Director of Community Relations. “This act, though it may seem small to some, is a continuous step from the Town of Knightdale in actively supporting our community partners. We value and understand the level of support needed for first responders and their families.”
For more information about the Town of Knightdale and our involvement with community partners, please contact our Community Relations department for additional information.