LAS VEGAS (KLAS) — Saturday marked 19 years since Sergeant Henry Prendes was shot while responding to a domestic violence call. His former colleagues and family gathered at Henry Prendes Park to honor his legacy.
Prendes served on the force since 1991 and died tragically in the line of duty in 2006. Saturday, a remembrance ceremony took place at the park his family can now call their own.
“I was a young officer when that tragic day happened and I remember it very clearly,” LVMPD Deputy Chief, Chris Holmes shared with 8 News Now. “The men and women who go out there and put this badge on their chest; They sacrifice everything.”
County officials like Commissioner Michael Naft, played a key role in the park renaming process and shared how Prendes was a staple within the southwest valley.
“He served at the Enterprise Area Command so that’s the connection here serving his community,” Naft said.
Nearly 50 people showed up Saturday afternoon, lining the sidewalks with white paper bags with electronic candles inside illuminating through as the day turned into night.
His family spoke to the crowd and shared memories of who Prendes was. His daughters shared how proud they were that they now have this park as a lasting memory to share with their children for years to come.
“We need a place for our kids to go and a place that will last forever. Our kids get to play here and know that this is Grandpa’s park,” Prendes’ daughter, Brooke Waugh said.
