By Anita Baffoni WPRO News
The Providence Board of Licenses closes two clubs in the city Wednesday after a stabbing and shooting took place, both in the same month.

Aqua Hookah Lounge on Broad Street is ordered to close after someone was shot inside when a security worker tried to break up a fight on August 15. A police officer heard gunshots from inside the club and saw patrons fleeing. When he entered, he learned an employee was shot and suffered non life threatening injuries.

Meanwhile, Van Gogh Lounge on Harris Avenue was also shut down after someone was stabbed outside the club last month. Police say the suspect came from a party bus that had several people from Massachusetts. The victim suffered a stab wound to the stomach.

“As people are visiting these establishment especially from out of state, they need to understand that in the City of Providence we take public safety very serious,” Providence Board of Licenses Chair Juan Pichardo said. “Especially when it comes to severe violence, in terms of gun violence or if someone gets hurt, we take that very seriously.”