Chaos unfolded in Taipei on Friday when a man armed with a knife launched a violent attack near the city’s main subway station.
The terrifying incident left at least nine people injured, sparking widespread fear and prompting a swift emergency response.
Smoke Grenades Spark Mass Panic
According to dramatic footage, the suspect began his rampage by throwing smoke grenades at the Taipei Main subway station, located near the central train hub.
Pedestrians scrambled for safety as thick smoke filled the area, creating a scene of sheer panic.
After boarding the subway for a single stop, the man exited and continued his attack, tossing more smoke grenades on the streets outside.
Witnesses reported seeing him brandishing a knife at passersby before running into a nearby shop, sending shoppers fleeing in terror.
Emergency Response and Casualties
Paramedics rushed to the scene, treating victims both inside the station and on surrounding streets.
Taipei Mayor Chiang Wan-an confirmed that four of the injured were in critical condition.
Taiwanese Premier Cho Jung-tai added that one pedestrian had suffered a severe fall during the attack and arrived at the hospital in cardiac arrest.
Another victim suffered respiratory injuries from the smoke.
Authorities are actively investigating the suspect’s background.
Mayor Chiang reported that the man attempted to evade capture by jumping from a building, later succumbing to his injuries in hospital.
In response, police have been instructed to heighten security at train and subway stations across Taiwan.
A Disturbing Trend of Public Attacks
This shocking attack comes just a month after a mass stabbing on a London-bound train in the UK left ten people hospitalized.
That incident unfolded aboard a Doncaster-to-London King’s Cross train, which was heading toward Huntingdon, near Cambridge.
Emergency services, including armed police and air ambulances, quickly contained the situation when the train reached the station.
The Huntingdon platform scene showed forensic teams and police dogs as officers examined the aftermath, highlighting the growing concern over violent public attacks across the globe.
What Comes Next
Authorities in both Taiwan and the UK are reviewing safety measures for public transport systems, aiming to prevent such violent incidents in the future.
The Taipei attack serves as a stark reminder of how quickly everyday environments can turn dangerous, and officials are urging vigilance among commuters.
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