Taiwanese authorities have ruled out terrorism in the recent deadly stabbing at Taipei Main Station, where a lone attacker killed three people and injured 11 others. The 27-year-old suspect, identified only by his surname Chang, carried out a three-hour assault involving smoke bombs and knife attacks across multiple locations in the capital.

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Incident Overview

The attack began on Friday afternoon at Taipei Main Station metro, where Chang set off smoke bombs before stabbing passers-by. He then moved to a nearby shopping district close to Zhongshan Station, continuing the assault.

Chang ultimately fell to his death after jumping from a building while being pursued by police.

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Police Investigation Findings

A senior Taipei City Police Department official stated that the suspect showed no political, religious, or ideological motives. Based on preliminary investigations:

• Chang did not meet the definition of a terrorist attack.
• Investigators found searches on his iPad related to random killings, including material about a 2014 Taipei metro stabbing where four people were killed.
• Authorities concluded that Chang acted alone, meticulously planning to randomly kill people.

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Suspect Background

Police reported that Chang had previously served in the military but was discharged due to driving under the influence of alcohol. He later failed to report for mandatory reserve military training, making him a wanted individual under Taiwan’s conscription regulations.

Authorities found that he had rented an apartment in the district in January 2025 and scouted the area in advance, suggesting careful preparation for the attack.

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Government and City Response

Following the incident:

• Taipei Mayor Chiang Wan-an confirmed the suspect’s death and emphasized emergency preparedness measures.
• Police doubled security for the Taipei Marathon on Sunday and plan a high-intensity drill at metro stations ahead of New Year’s Eve.
• Taiwan’s President Lai Ching-te urged authorities to be “more cautious and proactive” and to improve emergency protocols.
• Metro Taipei closed a Christmas market near Zhongshan Station for three days in honor of the victims.

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Broader Implications

The attack, though not classified as terrorism, underscores vulnerabilities in public safety at mass transit hubs and crowded urban areas. Authorities are evaluating strategies to prevent similar incidents, including:

• Enhanced counter-violence and emergency response training for police.
• Improved public security protocols during high-traffic events and festivals.
• Public awareness campaigns on emergency procedures in crowded spaces.