Pop-up costume retailer Spirit Halloween has received backlash from customers after selling a ‘punk rock’ bullet belt accessory as part of its ‘prep school’ costume online and in stores.
The costume supplier, which is one of the largest seasonal retailers in the US, sold the costume bullet belt alongside other ‘punk rock’ accessories including a spiked bracelet and a plaid schoolgirl tie.
According to Virginia-based WAVY TV, some customers felt that the product was in poor taste in light of school shootings across the US.
More: Engineer says carbon fibre hull of Titan submersible showed signs of flaws
One customer is reported to have told WAVY: “I don’t like it.”
“I have three children that go to school, and I just heard about the shooting that just happened. And it’s scary, even though it’s a costume,” they said.
Another shopper, Vanessa, said she thought it was not an overreaction to feel upset about the costume.
“I know people always say everyone’s so sensitive, but it’s really not,” she said.
“A lot of children are dying because of the school shootings and you’re putting it where the school-like outfits are at.”
“That’s just wild to me,” she added.
Spirit Halloween told the broadcaster that the intention was not for it to be viewed any way other than as a costume accessory.
“It was not our intention for this product or its placement in the store to be viewed in any way other than a punk rock accessory. We appreciate you bringing this to our attention,” they said.
The product, which WAVY says they found in at least two of Spirit Halloween’s Virginia Beach stores, retailed at $14.99. A gold bullet belt was also on sale for $9.99.
The products no longer appears on the retailer’s website.
