Taipei Knife Attack Leaves 3 Dead, Nine Injured During Evening Rush
A knife-wielding attacker used smoke devices at Taipei Main Station, then moved to nearby areas, killing three and injuring nine as security services respond.
In Taipei, a knife-wielding attacker triggered smoke devices at a central transit hub, leading to fatalities and injuries during the evening rush. The suspect then moved through crowded streets to nearby stations before dying amid a police confrontation. Authorities are investigating the motive and any potential connections.
What happened
Around 5:20 pm local time, the assailant released smoke bombs at Taipei Main Station, a major transport and shopping area, before fleeing toward Zhongshan Station about 800 meters away. Video clips show bystanders fleeing as the attacker moved through traffic with a large knife and additional smoke devices. He later targeted a bookstore and department store before authorities surrounded him and he fell from a building, dying shortly after in hospital.
Response and investigation
Premier Cho Jung-tai confirmed three deaths and nine injuries. He said the suspect, named Chang Wen, had a criminal record and died after a fall during the police operation. Officials described heightened security at metro lines, rail facilities, and airports as the investigation continues into the suspect’s background and any possible links.
Context
Violent incidents like this are rare in Taiwan, which typically records low crime rates. The most recent major case in Taipei occurred in 2014 when a man killed four people on an underground train; that attacker was executed two years later.
Expert perspective
Expert comment: Security analysts say the event underscores the vulnerability of crowded transit hubs and the importance of rapid emergency responses. The incident is likely to trigger reviews of safety protocols across Taiwan’s transportation network.
Summary
The attack disrupted Taipei’s evening commute, resulting in three deaths and multiple injuries. Investigators are pursuing the suspect’s background to determine motive, while security agencies boost vigilance at transport hubs nationwide.
Key insight: Urban transit violence, while rare in Taiwan, demands swift safety upgrades and thorough investigations. BBC News
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