Last-minute shoppers crowd local malls

WARWICK, R.I. (WPRI) - Throngs of shoppers descended on mall across Rhode Island Wednesday night, looking to pick up last-minute gifts.

The parking lot at the Warwick Mall was full, as people like Tom Lafen of Coventry sought to finish shopping for friends and family.

Lafen said he actually prefers waiting until crunch time.

"It's more exciting," Lafen said. "You have to go out and buy stuff; you can't come back another day. The crowds, the pressure, its more fun."

Many stores stayed open late on Wednesday to make up for time lost because of the weekend blizzard. The Emerald Square Mall in Attleboro extended its hours to midnight. Some stores also planned to stay open late on Christmas Eve.