News Summary
A temporary construction wall at a Zara store in SouthPark Mall collapsed, causing minor injuries among shoppers. The incident occurred during heavy storms, raising concerns about safety regulations. Although no serious injuries were reported, the event highlights the need for strict compliance with safety protocols in busy public areas. The newly planned Zara store is still expected to open in 2026, with quick repairs carried out after the collapse.
Charlotte, N.C. – On Saturday, July 12, a temporary construction wall at a Zara store under construction at SouthPark Mall collapsed, with no serious injuries reported. Video footage from the scene shows the wall falling across a busy mall hallway, prompting nearby shoppers to rush to the aid of individuals who appeared to be in distress.
Mecklenburg County Code Enforcement characterized the structure as a “temporary aesthetic covering designed for use during construction.” They assessed the incident and confirmed that there were no major injuries linked to the wall’s collapse. Additionally, emergency services were not called to the mall in relation to the incident, indicating that any injuries sustained were minor.
The collapse of the wall occurred during a period of heavy storms in the area, with accompanying videos showing substantial rainfall outside the mall. Witnesses noted fallen branches littering the mall’s exterior following the storm, hinting at possible factors that may have contributed to the collapse.
A spokesperson for Mecklenburg County Code Enforcement clarified that while the oversight of temporary coverings falls outside of their jurisdiction, they retain responsibilities pertaining to the permitting and inspection of construction work in accordance with North Carolina Building Codes. This detail stresses the importance of compliance with safety regulations during construction projects.
The Zara store, which is anticipated to be the first of its kind in North Carolina, was announced in 2023 and is set to open its doors in 2026. However, the impact of the wall’s collapse on the timeline for the store’s construction is currently uncertain. As of July 14, the temporary wall has been reinstalled, and a section outside the mall has been boarded up for safety reasons.
Despite requests for comments regarding the incident, SouthPark Mall has not released any public statements at this time. The facility continues to operate as normal, with the collapse being an isolated incident amid the ongoing work at the new store.
Such incidents underline the importance of safety measures in construction zones, particularly in busy public spaces like shopping malls where the potential for injury can be heightened by unforeseen circumstances, including inclement weather. As investigations continue, mall officials and construction managers may seek to review safety protocols to prevent similar occurrences in the future.
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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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