Train station lockdown as suspect explodes smoke bombs and slashes man with knife
Chaos has erupted at a train station with a suspect throwing smoke bombs inside the entrance and stabbing a man trying to intervene.
It was one of a terrifying series of attacks that unfolded in central Taipei, Taiwan, at around 5.30pm local time today, plunging major transit hubs and surrounding areas into panic during the evening rush hour.
The first incident occurred at an exit of Taipei Main Station. An unidentified man suddenly threw multiple smoke bombs at the station exit. Several muffled explosions were heard and thick orange-white smoke rapidly spread through the area, filling the station with a chemical odor. Passengers covered their mouths and noses, screaming as large crowds fled in panic.
A member of the public was slashed and seriously injured in the chaos, with witnesses saying the man acted with exceptional bravery, rushing forward to stop the suspect from continuing the attack. During a struggle, the suspect suddenly produced a concealed weapon and attacked from behind while the man was off guard, reports setn.
The victim sustained a deep stab wound to his left arm, suffered heavy bleeding and collapsed. When paramedics arrived, he was already in cardiac arrest. Emergency crews performed CPR in the smoke-filled area and rushed him to hospital. His current condition remains unknown.
Shortly afterwards, reports emerged of a second attack near Zhongshan Station. The suspect allegedly threw multiple smoke bombs onto a main street before carrying a long knife into Eslite Bookstore, where he randomly slashed at people. Shoppers and pedestrians fled in terror as the suspect continued the rampage.
It was reported the suspect then entered a department store, took an elevator to the top floor and jumped from the building, apparently taking his own life. He fell at the entrance of the department store, leaving bloodstains across the area.
Witnesses described a loud thud on impact, followed by screams from passers-by. Paramedics later confirmed the suspect had suffered severe head injuries and multiple fractures and showed no signs of life. He was transported by ambulance to Mackay Memorial Hospital for emergency treatment.
According to reports, the two consecutive attacks resulted in nine people being injured, four of whom are in critical condition. Authorities have cordoned off the affected areas and launched a full investigation. The suspect’s identity and motives remain unclear and are under further investigation.
