REPORTER:

Mourners place bouquets at two Taipei metro stations to commemorate the victims of a random smoke grenade and stabbing attack on Friday evening.

Four people have been confirmed dead, including the killer, and 11 were injured.

The events happened during rush hour. People were traveling home or shopping when 27-year-old Chang Wen set off smoke grenades and attacked people at two separate metro stations.

Police investigation suggests that Chang acted alone and had planned the attacks for at least half a year, with no sign of a terrorist motive.

We’ve ruled out a terrorist attack.

We understand that the suspect had not contacted his family for more than two years and had been interested in firearms and weapons since childhood.

After the attacks, Chang jumped off a shopping mall roof to his death.

With the attacker unable to speak for himself, the city now demands answers from Chang’s family.

Did you know how your son was doing?

Chang, originally from the northern city Taoyuan, was previously discharged from the air force due to drunk driving and was wanted for failing to report for military service this year.

One expert said these life experiences and the lack of emotional support might explain why he did it.

(Expert):

[He exhibited] feelings of frustration and insecurity.

I think much of that also comes from the long-term setbacks in social experiences and the built-up psychological pressure. From a criminological perspective, because his internal stresses cannot be relieved, he developed a lone-wolf, antisocial personality and committed such a performative offense.

The tragedy in Taipei has shaken the country.

President Lai Ching-te has personally gone to check up on those injured. Besides thanking civilians who intervened, he emphasized that police forces must be the first to respond and protect them going forward.

Lai Ching-te (PRESIDENT):

We must strengthen police forces and rapid response units so that when an incident occurs, they can respond effectively and protect the public.

REPORTER:

For the deceased victims, including one 57-year-old security guard who tried to stop the attacker, the Taipei Metro is offering 160 thousand US dollars in compensation. The Taipei city government says it will also contribute.

But for the victims’ families, no amount can make up for what they’ve lost.