The North Hanover Mall in Hanover, Pennsylvania, has been condemned following a partial wall collapse on Monday (November 17). The incident occurred at the former JCPenney store, where a temporary wall, built after a fire in 2022, started to pull away from the building. The collapse was reported by the Hanover Fire and Rescue Company during a training exercise nearby.
Chief Code Enforcement Officer Chris Miller explained that the temporary fix, intended to hold until a permanent wall was approved, failed due to neglect and high winds. The collapse exposed other safety issues, including roof leaks, collapsed ceilings, and altered sprinkler heads. The mall's owners have not made any repairs since the fire, which caused over $1 million in damage.
The mall, owned by Namdar Realty Group, was condemned due to these safety concerns. While most businesses have been affected, Rural King and DaVita Dialysis remain open, as they are separated by firewalls from the rest of the mall. Local businesses like Jerry & Sals Pizza and Fish & Friends have closed temporarily, with the latter exploring pick-up sales options for customers.
Officials are working with the mall's management to address the violations and develop a repair plan. In the meantime, public works crews have placed danger signs and barricades around the property to ensure public safety.