NC bridge to be renamed Friday in honor of fallen Wake County Deputy Ned Byrd

The Auburn Knightdale Road Bridge was renamed Friday morning to honor fallen Wake County Deputy Ned Byrd.

It’s been three years since police say Byrd was shot and killed by brothers Alder Marin-Sotelo and Arturo Marin-Sotelo. The case is set for trial in September of 2026.

The name change, approved by the Wake County commissioners and the N.C. Department of Transportation, was marked by a bridge dedication ceremony on Friday.

A former co-worker of Deputy Byrd, Lt. David Bradford, described him as a “good guy” who was always willing to help, saying, “We miss him, and this is a great way to honor him.”

After the ceremony, the Byrd family and members of the Wake County Sheriff’s Office traveled to the bridge.

Byrd’s partner, Sgt. Andrew Staton, said he still remembers getting a call that Byrd had been shot and killed in the line of duty during a traffic stop..

Staton said he still keeps Byrd’s picture in his patrol car, and even adopted his K9 Sasha.

“When I knew how much Bird loved her, I knew no one person could replicate that. So I’m very grateful,” Staton said.

Now, an even larger honor. A bridge officially named the Ned P. Byrd Bridge along Auburn-Knightdale Road.

“When you drive on his bridge, you will be crossing over a bridge of opportunity to be the difference, the make a difference, to be like Ned,” said Wake County Sheriff Willie Rowe.

A story that continues every time people drive by.

“It is a true honor, and he is truly deserving,” Staton said. “I can’t think of a more deserving person. He would drop anything and do anything for anybody.”

ABC11 reporter Tom George contributed to this report. ABC11 is The News & Observer’s newsgathering partner.

This story was originally published August 15, 2025 at 8:20 AM.