Violence Causes Closure Of Nightclub In Buffalo, New York

Buffalo and Western New York had been known for many years for the quality of its nightlife. Over the years, there were countless clubs and bars that made a name for themselves, achieving nearly legendary status in Buffalo's history.

Add to that the fact that Western New York has the latest last call time in New York State, and you have a situation where people can almost party the night away in the big city.

However, from time to time, nightlife in the city can turn dangerous, and now the latest incident at a Buffalo venue has resulted in that place being shut down after an emergency order from the Buffalo Police Department.

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Club Marcella Ordered To Close By Buffalo Police After Latest Shooting

Early in the morning on Sunday, December 3, 2023, Buffalo Police Officers responded to a call for assistance around 2:30 am, where they encountered a 30-year-old man who was shot in the bathroom of Buffalo's Club Marcella. The yet-to-be-identified victim of the shooting was taken to the Erie County Medical Center (ECMC) for treatment, where he's listed in stable condition.

This is at least the 4th shooting incident that has happened at, inside, or close to the Cobblestone District club this year. One of those shootings, which occurred in February this year, was a triple shooting that left one dead.

City officials duct-taped an emergency closure order to the outside of the club, citing the disruptive and violent behavior that had taken place immediately inside and outside the club.

The City of Buffalo Charter gives the Mayor of Buffalo the legal power to shut a business down in an emergency. That power is delegated to the Buffalo Police Department Commissioner, who subsequently issued the order to shut down Club Marcella.

The Mayor is hereby authorized to direct the proprietors, keepers or persons in charge of any saloon, bar or place where intoxicating liquors, wine, ale or beer are sold, offered for sale or given away to close and keep closed, in times of dire emergency, for so long a time as he shall deem necessary, such saloon, bar or place, whenever he shall deem that the preservation of peace and good order shall be secured or promoted by closing and keeping closed said bar, saloon or place.
Section 313-3 of the Buffalo City Charter

What happens next for Club Marcella is unclear. There will likely be legal proceedings to determine the next steps, as both the owners of the Club and city officials have an opinion.

5 Nightclubs Western New York Would Love To See Come Back

For years, Buffalo has had many unique and unforgettable spots to party at, and with Erie County having a 4 a.m. last call time, along with our proximity to Toronto, WNY has had the benefit of a very active nightlife for many years.

Gallery Credit: Ed Nice