Creepy Clown Incidents Prompt Target To Pull Masks From Stores, Website

NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) -- If you were looking to be a clown for Halloween you'll have to shop somewhere other than Target.

The retail giant is pulling most of its clown masks from its shelves and online following a rash of incidents around the country involving creepy clown sightings, including several in the Tri-State area.

The move also comes after McDonald's announced its red-haired mascot would be keeping a lower profile. The burger chain said that it is being "thoughtful in respect to Ronald McDonald's participation in community events" as a result of the "current climate around clown sightings in communities."

For months, there have been reports across the nation of creepy clowns scaring people and even sometimes trying to lure children away, CBS2 reported.

Principals from more than a dozen Manhattan schools recently sent letters home to parents informing them of threats made on social media involving clowns. Similar threats have led to arrests.

At least one school district in Connecticut has banned clown costumes during the Halloween season.