Fights Erupt at 3 NC Shopping Malls Over Air Jordan Shoes

Basketball shoes named for retired star Michael Jordan still draw a crowd.

Shoppers at three Charlotte-area malls became unruly early Friday after waiting in line before dawn to buy the latest version of the Air Jordan shoe line.

Dozens of police officers were called to restore order at Carolina Place Mall in Pineville after fights erupted. The unrest started just after 5 a.m. as a crowd of about 200 that had been waiting pushed inside.

There were also disturbances at SouthPark and Northlake malls. Police and officials at both shopping centers asked patrons to leave.


Emergency medical crews were called, but didn't take anyone to hospitals.

The shoes named for Jordan still generate huge sales years after the NBA legend's retirement. Jordan now owns the NBA's Charlotte Bobcats.