At least three people were killed and nine others wounded after a knife attack in Taipei, Taiwan, during the evening rush hour on Friday, according to local media reports.
Police said the suspect threw smoke grenades near an exit of a metro station, causing panic among commuters, before launching a random stabbing spree. One victim reportedly died from cardiac arrest at the scene, while two others later succumbed to their injuries in hospital.
Videos circulating online appeared to show the attacker wearing what looked like body armour and a face covering, carrying a long knife and pulling smoke devices from a backpack as people fled.
A terrorist attack occurred in Taipei, Taiwan. pic.twitter.com/RqHHCJqxLU
— Real Taiwan news (@RealTaiwannews) December 19, 2025
Authorities said the suspect, identified as a 27-year-old man, attempted to escape police and later jumped from a building. He was taken to hospital but died from his injuries.
Local media reported the man was already wanted on an outstanding warrant linked to administrative offences, including failing to update his registered address and missing a compulsory military draft notice.
Investigators believe the violence may have begun earlier in the day, with reports that the suspect set fire to his home and nearby vehicles before travelling to the metro station.
🇹🇼⚡️- BREAKING: A man threw smoke grenades and attacked civilians with a knife in Taipei, Taiwan, at the MRT Taipei Main Station and then the MRT Zhonghshan Station.
3 dead and 5 injured per local authorities.
The suspect is believed to have jumped to his death. pic.twitter.com/f7MnVDcAPL
— Rerum Novarum // Intel, Breaking News, and Alerts (@officialrnintel) December 19, 2025
Security was stepped up across the city’s transport network as police worked to determine the motive behind the attack.
If they had the God-given right to defend themselves and bear weapons, this maniac would be dead in under 10 seconds.
You can’t possibly have that.