1 year ago, Deputy Ned Byrd was killed in the line of duty

RALEIGH, N.C. (WTVD) -- Friday, Aug. 11, 2023, marks one year since Wake County deputy Ned Byrd was shot and killed in the line of duty.

Byrd was investigating a suspicious vehicle on the side of the road when he was ambushed and killed.

Two brothers are behind bars charged with Byrd's murder.

Byrd's friends have organized two events this weekend to honor his memory.

On Saturday, Roll For Ned will take place at PNC Arena. It's a free Brazilian jiu-jitsu and self-defense seminar.

Byrd loved to train in martial arts and self-defense. In fact, several black belt instructors, who trained with Byrd, will be at Roll For Ned to share their expertise.

On Sunday, the Ned Bryd Memorial Triathlon will take place in Raleigh. This particular triathlon is unique because it includes CrossFit, jiu-jitsu and mountain biking.

It starts at 9 a.m. at Iron District CrossFit.

Brooke Weaver traveled to Raleigh from Utah to attend the events honoring her cousin.

"We need to be out here for the really big events and for him," she said. "I never want anybody to forget about Ned. I feel like it was really big, the first month, and coming up. As you get busier throughout life, and doing different things, you stop having a big community."