CLEARWATER, Fla. — The Westfield Countryside shopping mall in Clearwater has closed amid concerns over protests, some of which have turned violent, in the Tampa Bay area.
"For the welfare of our customers, employees and retail partners, we are currently closed," the mall wrote in a statement on its website. "We strongly believe in the importance of inclusivity and in the strength of our community - please stay safe, and we look forward to reopening to serve you soon."
The mall tentatively appears to be reopening Thursday at 11 a.m., according to its web page.
Earlier this week, 10 Tampa Bay told you how two other malls -- International Plaza and WestShore Plaza -- had decided to keep their doors shut Sunday after University Mall was damaged. All three malls have since reopened.
More than 40 people were arrested Saturday night during protests in the Tampa area on various charges ranging from burglary to rioting to carrying concealed firearms. The Champs Sports store on Fowler Avenue in Tampa was burned down.
What other people are reading right now:
- People march to Tampa's Franklin Manor after co-owner's 'just shoot them' comment
- Co-owner of Tampa restaurant group resigns after suggesting protesters should be shot
- The will of 'Tiger King' star Carole Baskin's missing husband Don Lewis was forged, sheriff says
- Sarasota police officer on leave after kneeling on man's neck
- 'The Bible is not a prop': Church leaders condemn Trump visit
- Group takes down huge Confederate flag in Tampa
FREE 10 TAMPA BAY APP:
►Stay In the Know! Sign up now for the Brightside Blend Newsletter