NEW CASTLE TOWNSHIP -- It's no secret the Schuylkill Mall near Frackville has been struggling, but now it appears it can't pay its debt.
We obtained court documents that show the Schuylkill Mall owner owes a bank just over $27 million.
There's a chance the Schuylkill Mall could be sold.
Shoppers have seen the mall try to bounce back from the loss of big box stores over the years.
"It's a little bit sad that Sears and Kmart left from there."
"Well, Sears closed, I think Bon Ton's going to be next."
There is no word on any more stores trying to leave the mall. In fact, recently small mom and pop stores moved in, hoping to keep the mall stay as a part of the community.
But it seems the problem is bigger than thought and the Schuylkill Mall is deep in debt.
County court documents show that unless the Schuylkill Mall can somehow settle a $27 million debt soon, it is scheduled to be sold at a sheriff sale in June.
Shoppers fear if the mall is sold, it could close, maybe even be knocked down and destroyed.
"We are so close to this mall. I like it, you know? It's just a shame it if does close down," said Joan Schultz of Gilberton.
Shoppers hope somehow it stays in the community, regardless of the sale.
"I hope they do something good with the building," said Daisy Wagner of Frackville. "I hope they don't knock it down because it costs so much money to knock them down. I hope they do something good with the building like maybe a motor vehicle place or homeless shelter."
Mall management said it could not comment on the debt or possible sale.
The sheriff sale is scheduled at the Schuylkill County courthouse on June 17.
