Taiwanese authorities have revealed new details about the deadly knife attack in Taipei, in which a lone attacker killed three people and injured at least six others. The suspect, identified as 27-year-old Chang Wen, meticulously planned the attack and changed his clothing five times during the spree, police said.

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Timeline of the Attack

The attack began on Friday afternoon at Taipei Main Station, where Chang threw smoke grenades in a crowded underground concourse before stabbing passers-by with a long knife.

After the initial assault, Chang traveled approximately half a mile to the Zhongshan retail district, continuing to stab individuals before entering a shopping center. Police pursued him, and he ultimately fell from the fifth floor, resulting in his death.

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Pre-Attack Preparations

Investigators revealed that Chang had carefully prepared the attack over days:

• Two days before the incident, he checked into a budget hotel near the retail area he would target.
• He spent the time scouting locations on foot and bicycle.
• On the day of the attack, he set fire to parked vehicles and attempted to set fire to his rented apartment before beginning the stabbing spree.
• Throughout the multi-phase attack, he changed his outfit five times, helping him evade police and maintain the element of surprise.
• Chang purchased smoke grenades online, which he used to create confusion and terror.

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Victims and Hospitalization

Authorities reported that six victims remain hospitalized, with two in intensive care but in stable condition. A third victim later died in the hospital due to stab wounds.

The attack, one of the rare instances of violent crime in Taiwan, prompted authorities to increase security at crowded areas and seasonal celebrations.

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Government Response

Taiwanese officials emphasized public safety and vigilance in response to the attack:

• Premier Cho Jung-tai said that all major locations, including railway stations, highways, subway stations, and airports, are maintaining high alert.
• President Lai Ching-te promised authorities would “quickly clarify the details of the case” and ensure citizens’ safety.

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Context and Historical Reference

This incident marks Taiwan’s first mass killing since the 2014 Taipei metro stabbing, where a man killed four people. That perpetrator was executed in 2016.

Authorities continue to investigate Chang’s motives, although early evidence indicates he acted alone with preplanned intent to randomly kill people.