Taipei, Taiwan — A rare and devastating act of violence on Friday evening 19 December 2025 left at least three people dead and more than a dozen injured after a knife-wielding attacker unleashed a coordinated assault involving smoke grenades and stabbings near major metro stations in Taiwan’s capital, prompting shock and grief across the island. The suspect later died after falling from a building during a police pursuit, officials said, as authorities scrambled to understand motives and reassure a shaken public.
Attack Unfolded During Rush Hour
The violence began around 5:20 p.m. local time near Taipei Main Station, one of the city’s busiest transportation hubs, when a 27-year-old man, identified by police as Chang Wen, detonated smoke grenades and then began slashing at random pedestrians with a long knife. Witnesses described chaotic scenes as smoke filled underground passages and commuters fled for safety.
The assault continued across multiple locations, including in the nearby Zhongshan metro area and the Eslite Spectrum Nanxi department store, where the attacker allegedly struck another victim. At least three civilians were killed, and 11 injured, including several with critical stab wounds, authorities said.
Suspect’s Death and Police Response
After the attacks, Chang reportedly attempted to flee, leading police on a pursuit that ended with him falling from a building — identified as a department store — and later dying from his injuries. Authorities said there was no immediate indication of accomplices, and the suspect acted alone, though the motive remains unclear and under investigation.
The suspect, who had been wanted for evading compulsory military service, had purchased smoke grenades online and conducted reconnaissance of target sites before the assault, according to initial police reports.
Panic and Heroism in the Streets
Eyewitnesses recounted harrowing experiences as smoke and panic gripped central Taipei. One survivor told local media he initially thought he might die before escaping the frenzy, while another described helping a wounded stranger, holding them as they urged loved ones to be notified.
A staff member at a nearby store recounted the terror of guiding customers to a safe room while trembling from fear, illustrating the profound shock the attack inflicted on everyday life in the city.
Government and Public Reactions
Taiwanese leaders strongly condemned the attack as a deliberate and indiscriminate assault on civilians, highlighting how rare such violence is in Taiwan, a society long regarded as relatively safe compared with many other capitals. Taipei’s mayor and national officials vowed to boost security around major public transport hubs, especially with upcoming holidays and large public gatherings.
President Lai Ching-te called for a thorough investigation into the suspect’s background, motives, and any possible triggers, emphasising that authorities would work to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
A City in Mourning
By the following day, crowds had gathered near the scenes of the violence, laying flowers and messages to honour the victims and express solidarity with the wounded. Several foreign diplomatic missions in Taipei offered condolences and support to the families affected.
Hospitals said several of the injured remain in care, with at least two in intensive care but stable following surgeries, while others have begun recovery. Emergency responders were praised for their rapid actions amid chaos, even as investigations continue.
Broader Security Concerns
While violent crime is uncommon in Taiwan, this incident — coming more than a decade after past metro attacks — underscores concerns about public safety and the unpredictable nature of “lone-wolf” assaults. Authorities have pledged increased police presence in crowded places and urged citizens to remain vigilant.
Officials have also emphasised the importance of addressing mental health and early warning signs in at-risk individuals, a discussion likely to intensify as Taipei and the rest of Taiwan reflect on the tragedy and seek ways to safeguard public spaces without sowing fear.
