Seattle lounge shuts down after shooting; new ordinance forces rule changes for others

A double murder at a Seattle hookah lounge led to the establishment’s closure and sparked policy changes for at least 20 others.

On Tuesday, the Seattle City Council voted 6-0 to approve CB 120956, amending regulations for after-hours nightlife lounges. The city now requires the establishment maintain two security guards, have video surveillance, draft a safety plan, allow entry by police officers during business hours, and stay up-to-date on all city and state permits and licenses.

“This new law gives City officials real tools to shut down illegal venues tied to gun violence and disorder,” Seattle City Council President Sara Nelson said, via a news release. “Pair this new law with the dozen bills we’ve passed over the last year and it sends a clear message: we take our public safety responsibilities seriously.”

According to KIRO 7, Capri Bar off Rainier Avenue South decided to permanently close after receiving a public nuisance order from the city, following a deadly shooting last month that killed two people. Prosecutors said Leontai Berry, 25, shot two people near the lounge. He is now charged with first-degree murder and unlawful possession of a gun. He’s currently being held on a $5 million bail.

The lounge has also been connected to previous violence, including a March 9 argument that led to a shooting, reported Seattle Police.

Seattle lounges have history of violence

According to the Seattle City Council, the new regulations will affect around 20-30 establishments throughout Seattle.

“Thank you to the Seattle City Council members who voted to enact this legislation to address establishments known for attracting gun violence,” Seattle City Attorney Ann Davison said via a news release. “I believe this tool will address the rise of place-specific gun violence caused by unlicensed venues. This legislation can’t come soon enough for our city as we look to save lives.”

The Seattle Council noted in its news release that the city has experienced at least 38 nightlife shootings since last year, including more than a dozen between 2 a.m. and 5 a.m. However, the new rules will not apply to restaurants, licensed adult entertainment establishments, licensed all-ages dance venues, theaters, or sports and recreation facilities.

Contributing: KIRO 7; Luke Duecy, KIRO Newsradio

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