A 27-year-old man who killed three people and injured 11 in a random stabbing spree across Taipei on December 19 prepared an extensive arsenal and multiple disguises, indicating he intended to escape and possibly carry out further attacks.
The suspect, identified as Chang Wen, stockpiled 35 petrol bombs, 24 smoke grenades, and 13 knives but used only a fraction during the rampage at Taipei Main Station, nearby streets, and the Eslite Spectrum Nanxi store before falling to his death from the rooftop.
Veteran detectives noted that leaving most weapons behind in a nearby business hotel suggests he did not plan to die immediately.
Instead, he equipped himself with gas masks, raincoats, hats, tactical vests, and knee pads for at least five outfit changes to blend into crowds and evade capture.
Chang conducted advance reconnaissance of sites and routes and deployed smoke grenades on main roads to divert attention before slashing victims, showing consistent and highly calculated tactics.
Police also noted that Chang had conducted on-site reconnaissance of the environment and routes before the crime, but something likely went wrong after entering the Eslite Nanxi store, leading to his eventual fall from the building.
Forensic expert Ko Ta-cheng observed the thorough preparations point to an original intent to flee rather than suicide.
The fall might have resulted from pursuit in dense crowds complicating escape.
Future analysis of injuries could clarify: severe head trauma would indicate deliberate suicide, while lower body fractures suggest an attempted getaway.
In the aftermath, authorities have intensified security nationwide.
Taipei deployed fully armed officers in busy districts, added metal detectors and explosive checks for events, and requested elite Thunder Squad reinforcements plus detection dogs and barriers for New Year's Eve.
Kaohsiung boosted patrols at metro hubs ahead of holiday festivals, with proactive screening to deter copycats.
As Taiwan prepares for Christmas and New Year crowds, travelers—including many from Hong Kong—are urged to stay alert amid visible heightened precautions.
