A masked assailant threw smoke bombs and rampaged with a knife, stabbing people at a Taipei metro station in Taiwan, killing 3 and injuring 5 before jumping from a building to escape police and dying.
On 19 December 2025, a shocking incident occurred in central Taipei, Taiwan, when a masked attacker armed with a long knife and throwing smoke bombs and firebomb-like objects attacked people at a major transport station, killing at least 3 and injuring 5 before dying during a police chase.
The attack began at Taipei's main train station, where the masked assailant, wearing clothing resembling body armor, threw about 5 to 6 smoke or firebomb devices, causing chaos. He then used a long knife to stab people indiscriminately before fleeing to Zhongshan Station, a central shopping district, continuing the assault along the way.
Taiwan's Prime Minister, Chou Chung-tai, stated the incident was a deliberate attack, although the exact motive remains unknown. He confirmed the suspect had a criminal record and outstanding arrest warrants. Authorities have searched the suspect's residence to investigate possible connections and motives.
The Mayor of Taipei revealed that one of the deceased was a good Samaritan who tried to stop the attacker at the main train station. The attacker died after jumping from a building while fleeing police, and officials confirmed it was a suicide to avoid arrest.
Taipei firefighters confirmed that the incident resulted in 4 deaths, including the attacker, and 5 injuries. Meanwhile, authorities are investigating suspicious objects found at the scene, which show burn marks consistent with firebombs.
Taiwan is generally known for very low rates of violent crime, making this incident a source of great shock and sorrow to the community.
Source: Reuters