Suspect in deadly Taiwan knife attack planned it for over a year

Taiwan’s capital city remains on high alert following a meticulously planned attack that left three people dead and eleven wounded, as authorities revealed the perpetrator spent over a year preparing for the rampage.

Police officials disclosed Monday that the assailant, identified as 27-year-old Chang Wen, carried out an elaborate scheme involving knife attacks and smoke grenades at a busy Taipei metro station before continuing his assault onto nearby streets and ultimately into a department store. The incident ended when Chang fell to his death from the building’s fifth floor while being pursued by officers.

“He was extremely cunning,” said Li Hsi-Ho, Taipei’s police chief, during a press conference detailing the investigation’s findings. “He had been planning the crime for a year and a half, and his motive for the crime also began a year and a half ago.”

Investigators revealed that Chang began acquiring materials for the attack in April 2023, methodically collecting smoke grenades, gas canisters, respirators, and other equipment. The level of preparation has shocked authorities in Taiwan, where violent crime rates are typically among the lowest in Asia.

During Friday’s assault, Chang displayed tactical awareness by changing his clothing and transportation methods multiple times, switching from a scooter to a bicycle before continuing on foot. His rampage extended beyond the attacks on pedestrians, as he also set fire to his apartment, caused road fires, and damaged various vehicles.

The violence has rattled Taiwan’s normally peaceful society, prompting officials to enhance security measures at crowded locations and public events across the island. Public spaces that typically operated with minimal security presence are now seeing increased police patrols and surveillance.

While the investigation into Chang’s motives continues, authorities noted he had been wanted since July for failing to report for compulsory military service. His background includes a period of voluntary military service that ended with his dismissal following a drunk driving incident. Family members reported having no contact with Chang for more than two years prior to the attack, suggesting a period of isolation that may have contributed to his actions.

The case bears similarities to other lone-wolf attacks seen internationally, where prolonged planning and social isolation often precede public violence. Taiwan, with its low crime rate, has historically experienced few such incidents, making Friday’s attack particularly shocking to the public.

Hospital officials reported that five victims remain hospitalized, with one in intensive care but in stable condition following surgery. The others are expected to recover from their injuries.

The attack has prompted calls from public safety experts for enhanced mental health resources and better monitoring systems for potentially dangerous individuals. Taiwan’s government faces challenges balancing these security concerns with the country’s traditionally open society.

Local businesses near the attack site have reported decreased foot traffic in the days following the incident, though city officials have encouraged residents to continue normal activities while remaining vigilant. Community vigils for the victims have been organized, with hundreds gathering to remember those lost in the tragedy.

As Taiwan processes this rare violent episode, questions about early warning systems and prevention strategies have emerged in public discourse, with security experts suggesting the case highlights potential gaps in identifying threats from individuals without obvious extremist ties or clear psychological red flags.