At least four people, including the attacker, were killed in violent incidents at Taipei Main Station and Zhongshan Station on Friday, according to the Taipei City Fire Department. Five others were injured.
Taiwan’s Premier Cho Jung-tai described the attacks as “deliberate,” though the motive remains unclear. Authorities said the 27-year-old suspect threw several gasoline or smoke bombs while wearing a mask and a bulletproof vest.
Witnesses reported seeing the attacker stab people and throw smoke canisters in the stations. One victim was killed while attempting to subdue the assailant. The suspect later died after reportedly jumping from a building to evade arrest.
In response, officials have increased security at key locations across Taiwan, including metro stations, highways, and airports. President Lai Ching-te vowed a thorough investigation and emphasized that authorities would act decisively to protect citizens.
Violent crime is uncommon in Taiwan, though a similar metro stabbing in 2014 killed four people and led to the execution of the perpetrator in 2016.
