Taipei Rush-Hour Attack Kills Three, Injures Nine as Authorities Tighten Security

A rare and deeply unsettling act of violence shook Taipei on Friday evening when a 27-year-old Taiwanese man carried out a deadly attack during rush hour across two major transit hubs. The suspect, Chang Wen, first triggered panic by igniting smoke grenades and Molotov-style devices near Taipei Main Station, filling the crowded area with smoke and chaos. As commuters rushed to escape, the attacker fled the scene, extending the violence into nearby areas and turning a routine evening commute into a citywide emergency.

According to witnesses and authorities, Chang moved toward Zhongshan Station, stabbing random bystanders along the route and inside a busy shopping complex. Emergency responders later confirmed that three people were killed, including a civilian who tried to stop the attacker, while nine others were injured. Police launched an immediate manhunt, surrounding the suspect before he reportedly fell or jumped from a multistory building. He later died in hospital. Officials stated that Chang had a criminal record, though his motive remains unknown, and investigations are ongoing to determine whether he acted alone.

Following the attack, Taiwanese authorities heightened security nationwide, reinforcing patrols at transport hubs, airports, and public spaces. The incident has sparked renewed discussion about emergency preparedness and public safety in a society known for low violent crime rates.
The MediaBites Team extends heartfelt condolences to the victims’ families and applauds first responders and civilians who acted bravely under extreme circumstances, while hoping for a safer and more secure public environment ahead.