A Target superstore located in Barboursville, West Virginia, has been forced to close its doors indefinitely after a slipping hillside caused a portion of the building to collapse. Shocking footage captured the aftermath, revealing a significant crack in one corner of the store where the ground beneath gave way, resulting in structural damage.
The incident initially occurred on February 2 when the hillside began to slip, prompting the store’s closure. However, the situation escalated further when the hillside slipped again on a subsequent Wednesday, leading to additional damage and necessitating the extended closure of the store.
The cause of the slippage remains undetermined at this time. However, as a precautionary measure, three families residing in homes behind the Target were evacuated from the area. Target has stepped in to cover the moving expenses for these affected families.
In response to the incident, Target has outlined plans to address the damage promptly. A spokesperson for the company stated that efforts to remove the damaged portion of the store are set to commence this week. Additionally, Target is committed to implementing further measures to prepare for construction in the months ahead, prioritizing the safety of its employees, customers, and the surrounding community.
The affected homeowners have been notified of the situation, with Target emphasizing its commitment to supporting them during this challenging time. Barboursville Mayor Chris Tatum reassured the public that there is no immediate threat to other businesses in the area, ensuring their continued operation despite the incident.
However, the slipping hillside has resulted in limited water supply to the area, with authorities investigating the extent of the damage. A spokesperson for West Virginia American Water disclosed that the initial slip on February 2 had damaged the water main, contributing to the disruption in service.
Mayor Tatum addressed concerns about intrusive behavior from onlookers, urging outsiders to respect the privacy and safety of affected residents. He emphasized the need for cooperation in allowing construction teams and law enforcement to work without hindrance, prioritizing the well-being of all individuals impacted by the incident.
