BRAINTREE — Police departments across the state are bracing for potential chaos Friday after social media posts advertised planned "mall takeovers" at two major shopping centers.

The Braintree Police Department says it's increasing staffing and coordinating with regional law enforcement after learning of a possible takeover at South Shore Plaza scheduled for 7 p.m.

"Our primary concern upon learning of this post was public safety," the department wrote. "We owe it to the visitors, employees, business owners, and the residents of Braintree to ensure that public safety is paramount."

Hours later, Peabody police issued a similar warning about a "Northshore Mall takeover" advertised for 3 p.m.

"Events promoted in this manner can attract a large and unpredictable crowd," the Peabody Police Department warned.

Previous takeover-style events have drawn large, unruly crowds that swarm intersections and parking lots with cars, dirt bikes, and motorcycles. In October 2025, a crowd set fire to a Boston police cruiser during a destructive overnight takeover. A Boston police cruiser burns during an October 2025 street takeover.

Archbishop Williams High School in Braintree has warned students they are prohibited from attending and may face disciplinary consequences if they do.

Both departments say they have developed operational plans and are coordinating with state and local law enforcement partners.