A two-alarm fire broke out at the P.F. Chang's restaurant near Northlake Mall in Charlotte, starting accidentally when someone improperly disposed of smoking materials near the building. The fire spread through the walls, but all restaurant workers and customers were safely evacuated. Forty firefighters were able to control the blaze within 45 minutes, causing an estimated $10,000 in damage.
American Eagle has filed a counterclaim against Northlake Mall's operators, alleging that the mall's deteriorating conditions, including "rampant violence" and a new chaperone policy for teen shoppers, constituted emergency events that allowed them to leave the premises. American Eagle claims that the mall, which they describe as "reminiscent of a warzone," failed to meet the standards of a first-class shopping center. The company is seeking to terminate the lease and is also pursuing a trial to determine the damages caused to their business, which they estimate to be in excess of $75,000.
Northlake Mall in Charlotte is set to implement new security measures in April 2023, including an increase in off-duty police officers and K9 patrols, public-view monitors, upgraded CCTV cameras, and vehicle recognition technology. The mall has experienced several violent incidents, leading to a decline in business and the departure of some retailers. The new measures aim to make the mall a safer place for patrons and retailers.
Buckle has announced the closure of its store in Northlake Mall, effective March 26. This comes after Apple announced its departure from the mall three weeks ago. The mall has been under scrutiny after a series of shootings took place inside or outside the mall over the past few months. Charlotte city councilmember James Mitchell said that 25% of the mall's stores are currently vacant. Northlake Mall plans to unveil new security measures soon.
The Buckle store in Northlake Mall, Charlotte, is closing this Sunday, following the recent closure of the Apple Store, due to safety concerns after three shootings in 75 days. Northlake Mall has promised to implement new safety measures, but no details have been given yet. The mall has already lost several tenants, including Dick's Sporting Goods, in 2021.
