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Computer Science Student at N.C. A&T Receives “Community Hero” Award for Quick Thinking

By Tonya Dixon / 01/24/2020 Students, College of Engineering, Computational Science and Engineering, The Graduate College

Computer Science Student at N.C. A&T Receives “Community Hero” Award for Quick Thinking

EAST GREENSBORO, N.C. (Jan. 24, 2020) – North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University graduate Computer Science student, Cody Byrd recently received the North Carolina Sixth District Community Hero award for January.

Byrd received the award, in recognition of the swift action he took in a Greensboro area Biscuitville, preventing an 8-year-old girl from being kidnapped on Dec. 27.    

As soon as Byrd placed his order, he immediately noticed a gentleman sitting adjacent, who was giving Byrd “weird vibes.”

“He was just staring at the little girl,” said Byrd. “He was staring way too intently.”

When the girl left on her own to go to the restroom, and the gentleman followed, Byrd knew he had to take action.

“When she left, the man left too. But he didn’t go into the restroom. He was just standing there,” said Byrd. “I knew something wasn’t right.”

After a brief encounter, Byrd took photos of the suspected kidnapper, his vehicle and contacted police.

Byrd received praise and gratitude from the mother, calling him her child’s guardian angel.

Cody was presented with a certificate and a flag flown over the State Capitol in his honor. Each month, Rep. Walker awards a constituent, business or organization in his district for displaying extraordinary acts of service and for making a difference in the lives around them.

Media Contact Information: tddixon1@ncat.edu

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