MADISON,Wis (SPECTRUM NEWS) -- While clean up efforts continue on State Street in Madison, the city’s East and West side also saw damage during the unrest.
Around the West Towne Mall, Gruno’s Diamonds, is one of the many stores now boarded up. Security tells Spectrum News 1 Wisconsin, the owner was luckily able to lock many valuables in the vault. In that same shopping plaza, Best Buy also fell prey to vandalism. The front entry door partially destroyed as thieves attempted a smash and grab.
Nearby at the West Towne Mall, Waunakee’s Mobile Glass President Tracy Weganast says the intruders were able to make their way into mall stores at that location and on the East Towne Mall as well. The individuals used small boulders and in at least one instance, a trash can. Weganast says it was some serious damage needing emergency repairs.
"A lot of glass cleanup, tons of glass cleanup most of our time was probably sweeping and then of course we seal with plywood until we can bring the glass in in a few days," Weganast said. She fears another night of violence could lead to more chaos. "Hoping that it’s not a repeat and it can be rectified."
Mobile Glass representatives says to their knowledge, despite boards on the buildings, both East and West Towne Mall sites will re-open Sunday.