Fri Dec 19 16:15:40 UTC 2025: Taipei Attacker Dies After Rampage, Sparking Security Concerns
Taipei, Taiwan – A man identified only as Chang, with a prior criminal record, carried out a series of violent attacks in central Taipei on Friday, leaving at least three dead and five injured. According to Premier Cho Jung-tai, the suspect detonated smoke bombs at Taipei’s main train station before fleeing to a nearby subway station in a busy shopping district, indiscriminately attacking people along the way with a knife.
“He deliberately threw smoke bombs and wielded a long knife to carry out indiscriminate attacks on the public,” Premier Cho stated.
The suspect died during a subsequent police chase after falling from a building while attempting to evade arrest. Mayor Chiang Wan-an confirmed the death, stating the attacker appeared to have jumped.
Authorities are investigating Chang’s background and motives, searching his residence to determine any connections to the attacks. “We will investigate his background and associated relationships to understand his motives and determine if there are other connected factors,” said Premier Cho.
In response to the incident, police have increased security across Taiwan, focusing on key transportation hubs like railway stations, highways, subway stations, and airports. President William Lai Ching-te assured the public that authorities would swiftly investigate the matter and ensure citizen safety. “There will be no leniency and we will do everything in our power to ensure the safety of our citizens,” he stated.
While violent crime is uncommon in Taiwan, the incident has rattled the island, recalling a 2014 metro stabbing spree that resulted in four deaths. The perpetrator of that attack was executed in 2016.
First Piper 