New Bedford Police Chief orders closure of restaurant following weekend homicide

NEW BEDFORD, Mass. — New Bedford Police Chief Paul Oliveira is ordering the Morna Lounge to close its doors “until further notice” following a deadly shooting early Saturday morning.

In a hand-delivered letter, Morna Lounge and Grill owner Mateus Jose Barbosa was ordered to cease operations immediately “in the interest of 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,” Chief Oliveira wrote.

On January 11, 27-year-old Cristiano Macedo was shot and killed at the establishment and two other women were also injured, according to police.

19-year-old Danielson Varela was arrested Sunday night in connection to the crime.

In addition to Saturday’s shooting, police say the restaurant has a history of violence which raises concerns about management’s ability to maintain a secure environment.

According to Chief Oliveira, there was a shooting outside the bar in July 2024 and a deadly shooting behind the business approximately a week later.

Authorities say the business has gone before the city’s licensing board five times between 2021 and 2023 for violations on 13 separate nights, including a 2022 stabbing.

“The New Bedford Police Department will not tolerate environments that foster violence and disorder,” Chief 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.”

This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available.

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