A violent rampage unfolded across Taipei’s metro system on Friday evening, resulting in three fatalities and five injuries before the suspected perpetrator fell to his death from a building. The attack sent shockwaves through the Taiwanese capital, known for its low violent crime rates.
The 27-year-old assailant initiated the assault during evening rush hour, detonating smoke bombs and Molotov cocktails at Taipei Main Station—a major transportation hub interconnected with bustling underground shopping corridors. According to Premier Cho Jung-tai, the attacker subsequently proceeded to another subway station approximately 800 meters away in a popular shopping district, stabbing bystanders during his movement between locations.
Eyewitness footage circulating on social media depicted chaotic scenes as commuters fled in panic. One courageous individual who attempted to intervene sustained fatal injuries from a blunt object and later died at a medical facility.
Authorities confirmed the suspect’s demise after falling from a building, though investigative efforts continue to establish motive and potential affiliations. Premier Cho immediately ordered enhanced security protocols at transportation nodes including metro stations, railway facilities, and airports nationwide.
President William Lai pledged a thorough and expedited investigation into the incident. This represents the most significant public attack since the 2014 Taipei Metro stabbing that claimed four lives, whose perpetrator was ultimately executed in 2016.