NEW BEDFORD, Mass. (WLNE) — The New Bedford Police Department said that it ordered for the temporary closure of the Morna Lounge and Grill on Monday after a fatal shooting occurred on the premises over the weekend. On Jan. 11, one man was killed and two women were injured after an early morning shooting at the restaurant. Two days later, New Bedford Police Chief Paul Oliveira ordered for the immediately closure of Morna Lounge and Grill “until further notice” for public safety. “Based upon the history of prior incidents and the recent shooting on Saturday at the premises, in the interest of public safety and to ensure that there is no retaliation stemming from Saturday’s shootings you are ordered to cease operation of the Morna Lounge and Grill at the premises,” Oliveira said in a letter to the restaurant.  The New Bedford Police Department said it has responded to the business numerous times before the Jan. 11 shooting, including two shootings that occurred over the summer, with one fatal. From 2021 to 2023, representatives for Morna Lounge and Grill appeared before New Bedford’s Licensing Board five times for 13 occurrences of violations, which police said resulted in multiple probations and suspensions.  The department said the history of events raised concern on the business’ ability to host a “safe and secure environment” for the community. “The New Bedford Police Department will not tolerate environments that foster violence and disorder,” Oliveira said. “The safety and well-being of our City is our top priority, and we will take appropriate measures to address any establishment that fails to uphold its responsibility to the public.” New Bedford police said the closure will remain in place until further notice. Categories: Massachusetts, New Bedford, News