A violent attack struck the heart of Taipei’s metro system on Friday evening, leaving at least three people dead and several others injured. The assault began at Taipei Main Station, the city’s busiest transport hub, when a man armed with smoke bombs and a knife triggered panic among commuters before continuing his assault at a nearby station. The suspect later died after falling from a building while being pursued by police.
3 dead and many injured in Taiwan after a man released smoke bombs in a metro station, before attacking bystanders with a machete.
pic.twitter.com/361X81Gbsr— Tommy Robinson 🇬🇧 (@TRobinsonNewEra) December 19, 2025
Taiwan’s leaders have condemned the attacks as deliberate and unprecedented on a transport system normally regarded as one of the safest in the region. Searches and investigations are continuing as authorities work to piece together the motive and prevent further incidents.
Timeline of the Taipei Metro Attacks
The violent spree began around 5 p.m. local time when the assailant threw multiple smoke grenades at Taipei Main Station, filling the platform with dense smoke and surprising commuters. After the initial blast, he is believed to have moved toward Zhongshan Station, where he wielded a knife and attacked passersby.
Witnesses reported chaos as people fled platforms and streets filled with smoke, causing mass confusion. Emergency services rushed to the scene as commuters sought shelter or medical help.
Taipei Metro Attack: Casualties and Injuries in the Attack
Officials confirmed at least three fatalities, including victims who suffered cardiac arrest or fatal wounds during the rampage. A total of nine people were wounded, with several in serious condition, according to local authorities.
Eyewitnesses said one victim, described as a man in his 50s, was injured early in the attack and later died after being rushed to the hospital. Other victims sustained stab wounds and respiratory injuries from the smoke.
Taipei Metro Attack: Suspect’s Death & Background
The attacker, identified as a 27‑year‑old man surnamed Chang, was later found dead after falling from a rooftop while being chased by police officers. He was declared dead at a hospital shortly after.
Authorities revealed that Chang had a prior criminal record and outstanding warrants, including for military service violations, and was carrying items such as petrol bombs in addition to smoke grenades and the knife.
The motive behind his actions remains unclear. Officials are investigating his background and associations to determine whether he acted alone.
Taipei Metro Attacks: Government Response & Heightened Security
Taiwan’s Premier Cho Jung‑tai described the incident as a “deliberate act” and ordered heightened security at all transport hubs, including metro stations, railways, and airports. He said police and emergency services would remain on high alert across the island.
President Lai Ching‑te vowed that authorities would work swiftly to clarify the facts and ensure public safety. He also pledged to support the victims and bring answers to their families.
Public and Historical Context
Violent crime in Taiwan is rare. The last major attack on the Taipei metro occurred in 2014, when a man went on a stabbing spree on a subway train, killing four people. That incident deeply shocked the normally peaceful city and led to increased security measures.
Friday’s attacks have once again raised concerns about public safety in transit systems and sparked a national conversation on how to prevent similar tragedies.
