# Willow Bend mall hit by burglaries before Stars arena demo

> Two stores robbed as the Dallas shopping center prepares for demolition to build a new hockey arena.
- Title: Willow Bend mall hit by burglaries before Stars arena demo
- Summary: Two stores robbed as the Dallas shopping center prepares for demolition to build a new hockey arena. Security concerns are mounting at Willow Bend mall as it…
- Keywords: willow bend, dallas, burglary, cutlery collection, pipe & palette, dallas stars, arena redevelopment, retail security, plano police, mall demolition, news, politics
- Source: Dallas Express — https://dallasexpress.com/crime/willow-bend-stores-burglarized-as-mall-nears-dallas-stars-redevelopment
- Author: Dallas Express
- Published: 2026-09-17T16:30:10+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: willow bend, dallas, burglary, cutlery collection, pipe & palette, dallas stars, arena redevelopment, retail security, plano police, mall demolition, news, politics
## Cutlery store loses $50K in overnight heist
Thieves broke into Cutlery Collection around 1 a.m. Monday, cutting through a security chain to steal swords, hunting knives, and collectible blades. The owner estimates the loss at more than $50,000.

> I've got a suit of armor with no helmet now
## Second business also hit in same night
Pipe & Palette, an art-focused event business at the mall, was burglarized the same night, losing more than $8,000. Owner June Parker questioned how long the break-in went unnoticed.

> It was just like, wow, like a bomb went off
## Mall security reduced as retailers flee
Cutlery Collection owner Karl Monk blamed reduced security measures for the break-in, noting that many retailers have already abandoned the property. He expressed frustration over the lack of protection.
## Dallas Stars arena project drives demolition
The Shops at Willow Bend is scheduled for demolition in 2027 to make way for a new Dallas Stars arena. The team selected the property in June and has already chosen a design firm for the arena and entertainment district.
## Businesses face uncertain transition period
Pipe & Palette plans to relocate next month, while Cutlery Collection will stay open. The mall owner says safety remains a priority, but business owners worry about security during the redevelopment process.
## Key takeaway

Security concerns are mounting at Willow Bend mall as it empties out ahead of its 2027 demolition for the Dallas Stars arena project.