RALEIGH – Knightdale Police Officer Ryan Andrew Hayworth has been bestowed yet another posthumous honor. The NC Department of Transportation approved a resolution on Thursday, May 4th to name the bridge on Knightdale Boulevard spanning Interstate 540 in memory of the fallen officer.
Knightdale Police Chief Lawrence Capps and several members of the Hayworth Family attended the meeting in Raleigh, where the resolution was unanimously approved.
“This step today is a great honor that will continue to ensure that Ryan’s memory lives on,” Ryan’s father, retired Zebulon Police Chief Tim Hayworth, told board members. “And we know that today Ryan is looking down on this meeting with that grin — anybody that knew Ryan knew that he always had this grin on his face, and we know that he is grinning right now.”
Officer Hayworth was killed during the early morning hours of October 17, 2021. Ryan and his training officer, Cody Hagler, were investigating a traffic collision on Interstate 540 when their police cruiser was struck from behind by a drunk driver. Officer Hayworth’s death rallied an entire community and brought the 23-year-old officer’s legacy of service into the spotlight.
The bridge naming is a fitting tribute to a young man who gave so much of himself to others. Ryan graduated from East Wake Academy in 2016 and joined the Army National Guard in 2019. He served as a Specialist in Kuwait during Operation Enduring Freedom, receiving several commendations and service medals. Ryan was also an active member of Faith Baptist Church in Knightdale where he led small groups and embarked on mission trips.
Ryan joined the Knightdale Police Department in July 2021, following in the footsteps of his father. Officer Hayworth was faithfully serving the citizens of Knightdale when his bright light was extinguished.
Chief Lawrence Capps expressed his gratitude and reminded the transportation board that someone isn’t truly gone until they are forgotten.
“This act today, though it may seem small to some, is a huge step in memorializing a young man who committed his life to service,” Capps said. “So, thank you for your part in helping us to ensure that Ryan’s memory lives on, for making sure that he is not forgotten. It is our hope that all those who pass by the bridge will be reminded of his selfless service, but more than that, be challenged to live like Ryan.”
The NCDOT Board commissioned the creation of the appropriate signage, and a dedication ceremony will be held on a future date.