Exploring Black Friday Crimes in Pennsylvania
Black Friday has become synonymous with some of the biggest deals and savings of the year. Every year, millions of Americans flock to stores and shopping centers across the country to partake in the shopping frenzy. While this day of shopping and saving can be exciting, it is also notorious for attracting crime. In this blog post, we are going to explore the history of Black Friday crime in Pennsylvania and how you can stay safe during the holiday shopping season.
Over the years, Pennsylvania has seen its fair share of Black Friday crimes. In 2008, a Walmart employee was trampled to death in Valley Stream, NY, as shoppers stormed the store when the doors opened. Although this didn’t happen in Pennsylvania, it served as a wakeup call for retailers to take additional measures to ensure the safety of their employees and customers on Black Friday.
In 2010, a woman was arrested at a Walmart in Salem Township, Westmoreland County for cutting in line and threatening other customers with pepper spray. Another Walmart in Franklin Mills saw its fair share of Black Friday chaos in 2011 when a female shopper was arrested for punching another woman in the face.
There was another incident that took place in Delaware County in 2014, where a man was shot during a Black Friday shopping frenzy outside a Macy’s department store. Shoppers rushed to the store, and a fight erupted outside the store causing the victim to get shot in the shoulder.
Despite these isolated incidents, it is important to note that most shopping malls and retailers in Pennsylvania have put extra measures in place to ensure the safety of their customers, employees, and products. However, it’s always wise to be cautious and aware of your surroundings when shopping during the holiday season.
Here are some safety tips you should keep in mind when shopping on Black Friday:
1. Have a plan and stick to it – Research the deals you’re interested in ahead of time and create a shopping plan to avoid wandering around aimlessly.
2. Stay alert – Stay aware of your surroundings, and if you’re shopping alone, be extra cautious.
3. Keep your belongings safe – Keep your wallets and purses close to you at all times, and never leave them unattended.
4. Avoid large crowds – If you’re not comfortable in large crowds, avoid malls, and instead opt for online shopping.
In conclusion, Black Friday is a day that is synonymous with great deals and discounts. However, it is also a day that is notorious for crime. Although Pennsylvania has had its fair share of incidents, it is important to remember that retailers have put extra measures in place to ensure the safety of their customers, employees, and products. Always exercise caution, have a plan, and stick to it when shopping on Black Friday, and remember to stay alert and keep your belongings safe. Happy shopping!