The company that operates Stones River Mall in Murfreesboro has filed for bankruptcy protection.  General Growth Properties is the second largest shopping mall developer and operator in the country.  GGP's debts total $27.3 billion, making this the largest real estate bankruptcy in U.S. history, according to the Nashville Business Journal  
A statement posted today on the company website blames the collapse of the credit markets.  GGP is telling employees they still have jobs and paychecks.  Its 200 shopping malls and office buildings will remain open for business while the company restructures its debts.   Shoppers and workers at Stones River Mall should not be affected.