Target says it's closing 9 stores because of surging retail thefts

Target said Tuesday it is shuttering nine stores in four states because mounting thefts and organized retail crime at those locations is jeopardizing the safety of workers and customers.

The closings, which take effect on Oct. 21, include four stores in San Francisco, three stores in Portland, Oregon, and two in Seattle. Target said that it still will have a combined 150 stores after the closures.

"[W]e cannot continue operating these stores because theft and organized retail crime are threatening the safety of our team and guests, and contributing to unsustainable business performance," Target said in a statement. "We know that our stores serve an important role in their communities, but we can only be successful if the working and shopping environment is safe for all."