Taiwan, a nation known for its exceptionally low violent crime rates, was left reeling last Friday after a meticulously planned knife and grenade attack in its bustling capital. The tragic assault, which unfolded across a Taipei metro station, city streets, and a department store, resulted in three fatalities and 11 injuries.
Authorities quickly identified the attacker as 27-year-old Chang Wen. Police revealed Monday that Chang had been preparing for this horrific event for over a year and a half, starting his dark preparations in April 2024. He acquired smoke grenades, gas canisters, respirators, and other tools, carefully orchestrating a multi-phase assault designed to maximize chaos. During the attack, Chang cunningly changed his clothing and various modes of transportation, from a scooter to a bike, even setting fires to his apartment and vehicles in a desperate attempt to evade capture.
The pursuit ended tragically as Chang fell to his death from the fifth floor of a department store. While the motive remains under investigation, authorities noted Chang had been wanted for failing to report for military service and had previously been discharged from voluntary service for drunk driving. He had also been out of contact with his family for over two years.
The rare violence profoundly shocked Taiwan, leading to immediate increases in security at crowded public spaces and large gatherings. While five injured victims remain hospitalized, one is now stable after surgery, offering a glimmer of hope amidst the profound grief and a community striving to understand such an unprecedented act.
