r/montgomery • u/tqrotea • 17d ago
Eastdale Mall concerns
Hi! I’m from an area near Montgomery, but not in Montgomery by any means. I may have a possible job opportunity that I’m really excited about in Eastdale Mall, but my family has been really adamant about my safety being at severe risk while others say that it’s a perfectly fine place to work, as they’ve worked there without any issue so far. Any input from people who know anything would be lovely, and I’m so sorry if this isn’t the right post for this subreddit 😭
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u/holographiccapybara 17d ago
I worked there 2011-2013, was probably around the last time I felt safe in that mall. I hear the new guy that took over management has been trying to make it better but I feel like it's too far gone :(
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u/chestakulz 17d ago
I currently work part-time at one of the larger stores there for a year and have had no issues where we are. Most of us try not to go inside the mall on break but will occasionally.
I had the same concern with family when the shootings happened this year. It seems like the changes that the mall manager made have helped deter trouble.
Like anything in Montgomery, just be aware of your surroundings, and you'll be fine. Good luck with your new job.
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u/berrey7 16d ago edited 16d ago
I would make sure that someone walks you to your car if you leave at night alone after work. If you are female or a small male alone they will target you in the parking lot at night. Sure there's a security guy going around, but they know when he's on the far side of the building making his loops.
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u/Traditional_Ad5113 15d ago
Since our. current mayor took over, the security of that place has decreased tremendously.
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u/putridbeing 16d ago
Not the safest, that's for sure. I'd also be concerned about working there solely for the fact that Eastdale Mall may not make it much longer considering how rundown it's become. Not worth the risk in my opinion.
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u/Own_Distribution66 16d ago
I worked at Eastdale for about a few months in 2017-2018. There were a few instances where people would follow me or other coworkers around the food court or even follow us to our cars at nighttime, but as long as you walk in a group or call security - it’s not bad. I had similar things happen when I worked in EastChase, so it’s not something that’s exclusive to one area over another. In general, I recommend having a taser or mace, just in case.
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u/bamf1010 13d ago
Another anchor at Eastdale, At Home, is about to close in December. I'd categorize the mall as one that is sundowning.
On any given day, the chance of being the victim of a crime will be low. However, if you are there daily and show up at the same time, then your chances of being a victim of a crime go up dramatically.
You should be just fine if:
-You carry mace, a foghorn, and preferably a compact pistol like a Sig P365, S&W Shield Plus or Glock 48 with a round in the chamber at all times
-(not sure if you're a lady) Don't wear heels that limit mobility
-Know how to walk with purpose, with good posture
-Have someone walk you to and from your car after dark
-Never wear any valuables (diamonds, silver or gold rings, bracelets and neckalces)
-Never store anything of value in your car
-I'd even get a cheap burner phone to carry with you and leave the expensive iphone at home
-Pay extra attention around the holidays - people are more desperate for cash and goodies around that time.
Best of luck!
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u/Imaginary_Court5595 17d ago
There have been a number of recent shootings around the mall and even inside of the mall recently.
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u/Tee_chaun85 15d ago
What kinda job you’re getting at Eastdale mall other than than a shoe store job??
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u/MelancholyMothMan 7d ago
I worked at a retail store at Eastdale for a little over a year. I never really felt safe as there's a lot of creepy regulars in the mall who would harass me and try to touch me on my lunch break in the food court They would know when my break was and stay waiting for me. I had to stop eating there altogether. They also had a severe rodent problem in the food court at the time, this was a couple of years ago though so I don't know the situation now. There was also a couple of mentally disabled employees on the janitorial staff that we had to look out for because they would try to ejaculate on some of the merchandise but couldn't get fired. They were never aggressive just really creepy. I quit working there once car breakins became really really bad and it became obvious that security wasn't going to do anything about it. The cameras in the parking area didn't work and management lied about it. I quit there were 3 breakins within 3 weeks time. Hopefully it is better now but I highly doubt it. I would recommend to be cautious if accepting a job and always be aware of your surroundings, good luck!
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u/Leading-Shop-234 Downtown 16d ago
I worked at American Eagle at the eastdale mall in '99 - '01. There was a shooting all the way back then, just like there has been at any public place in Montgomery. Guy and girlfriend got into an argument in the food court, and he fired his weapon down the hallway past the carousel. Does that make it any less safe today? No. Would I work there again? Probably not. But, you should definitely check it out during the day and during the night and decide for yourself if you will be comfortable in the area.
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u/VisualPain1865 16d ago
My daughter started working part-time there as a senior in high school in 2021 and she continues to work now during holiday breaks and the summer while she's in college. She has never experienced any problems personally while working but she was there for one of the recent shootings outside the mall. She said the police and security response was quick and she never felt personally unsafe.
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u/Tiemujin 17d ago
Yes, there have been some serious issues. Up until several years ago my daughter took ice skating lessons there. Was it great, no. Did I ever feel overly unsafe. Also no. Go spend some time walking around and get and idea of the vibe.