LAS VEGAS (FOX5) — Security gates installed at Sunset Park near Harry Reid International Airport have significantly reduced overnight parking, according to Clark County officials. And that has reduced criminal activity, according to a nearby business owner.
The gates close nightly at 11 p.m. at multiple park entrances, including locations on Eastern Avenue and Sunset Road at McLeod.
Juan Carlos Abad, owner of Taqueria 2 Carnales across from the park on Eastern Avenue, said he has experienced no security problems since the gates were installed in October 2025. Abad said there were issues before the gates went up.
Break-ins and theft before gates
Surveillance video from Abad’s restaurant shows a person crossing Eastern and then breaking through the front door. The person is then seen rummaging through the kitchen. The thief found a safe and stole approximately $1,500, Abad said.
“Before it was, I mean, like more dangerous because it was a lot of people,” Abad said.
During the three years he has owned the restaurant, Abad said someone attempted to steal his van and food truck. Thieves did steal a generator from behind his restaurant.
County reports reduction in overnight parking
The county said there has been a significant reduction in cars parking overnight at Sunset Park since the gates were installed. On Wednesday night, FOX5 observed the gates closing at 11 p.m. and saw one car being turned away by a closed gate.
Abad suggested government leaders consider installing similar gates at more parks so families can feel safe.
Abad also said he has noticed increased police patrols around the park area. When FOX5 shot video around 11 p.m., someone in a car announced the park was closed and it was time to leave.
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