So a guy walks into a bar, and he asks the bartender (stop me if you’ve heard this one) if it’s a gay bar…

At least three people were injured in an apparent hate crime in a New Bedford bar last night, according to broadcast reports.

WHDH-TV, quoting an employee of Puzzles Lounge on North Front Street, said a man went into the bar around midnight, ordered a drink, then asked if it was a gay bar.

He then pulled out a machete and a hatchet and began attacking some of the 18 people inside. When patrons tried to restrain him, he pulled a gun and fired at least five shots.

Three patrons were shot, two in the face and one at the chest. They were being treated at Boston hospitals this morning.

Police are searching for the shooter.

The usual denials of responsibility for the climate of hate toward gay people will be forthcoming momentarily, from the usual suspects…

[Update…] They have a suspect in the shooting that they’re actively looking for:

He is an 18 year old named Jacob D. Robida, of New Bedford, Mass. Police said Robida has dark hair, is about 5 feet 6 inches tall and weighs about 200 pounds. He is believed to be driving a 1999 green Pontiac Grand Am with Massachusetts plate number 85EC58.

Consider him armed and dangerous. If you see him, call the police.