News Summary
A temporary wall at a Zara store under construction in SouthPark Mall collapsed, causing panic among shoppers. No serious injuries were reported, and video footage captured the dramatic moment. Despite storms in the area, the wall has since been reinstalled. Authorities are evaluating safety protocols and construction measures to prevent future incidents as the first Zara in North Carolina approaches its scheduled opening in 2026.
Charlotte, N.C. – A temporary wall at a Zara store under construction in SouthPark Mall collapsed on Saturday, July 12, causing a brief moment of panic among shoppers. Fortunately, no serious injuries were reported, according to Mecklenburg County Code Enforcement. Video footage submitted to authorities shows the wall falling over across the mall’s hallway, with a voice in the background calling for help as nearby customers rushed to assist.
The wall was described as a “temporary aesthetic covering designed for use during construction.” Despite the dramatic nature of the incident, code enforcement officials confirmed that no one was seriously injured, and medical assistance was not requested at the mall. The wall’s collapse coincided with heavy storms affecting the area, as subsequent reports indicated downed tree branches and considerable rainfall observed outside the mall.
As a precaution, by Monday, July 14, the temporary wall had been reinstalled inside the mall, and a section of the area outside the mall was boarded up following the incident. Despite these actions, it remains unclear whether the collapse will impact the anticipated opening timeline for the Zara store, which is expected to be the first Zara location in North Carolina, scheduled to open in 2026.
A spokesperson for Mecklenburg County Code Enforcement stated that while the fallen wall falls outside their jurisdiction, they would oversee permitting and inspecting construction work inside the store to ensure compliance with North Carolina Building Codes. The construction of the Zara store was announced earlier in 2023, and interest in its upcoming establishment has been notable.
This incident raises questions about safety protocols and construction site oversight during inclement weather conditions, especially given the timing of the storm. The temporary wall, designed primarily for aesthetic purposes, highlights the need for stringent safety measures in public areas undergoing renovations or new constructions.
As the situation develops, SouthPark Mall has not yet responded to requests for comment regarding the incident. The local community and shoppers are encouraged to stay informed as the construction proceeds and any changes to the timeline are announced.
In conclusion, while the immediate danger from the collapsing wall has been resolved without serious harm, questions linger regarding the factors contributing to such incidents and the robustness of safety protocols in place at the mall. Authorities continue to monitor the situation as they ensure all future construction work adheres to safety regulations.
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Additional Resources
- WBTV: Video of Wall Collapse at SouthPark Mall
- Charlotte Observer: Zara Store Opening in SouthPark Mall
- K104.7: Zara Expected to Open in 2026
- Axios: Retailers in Charlotte Area
- Google Search: Zara Store Construction
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