TAICHUNG (TVBS News) — The Taichung District Prosecutors Office charged a 20-year-old man, surnamed Hong (洪), on Wednesday (June 26) with attempted murder for a violent incident on the Taichung Metro in May that captivated national attention. According to the prosecutors, Hong meticulously planned the attack and was found to be of sound mind during their investigation.
Hong aimed to spotlight himself and ignite debate on capital punishment through his actions. On the morning of May 21, wielding a weapon bought in Kaohsiung, he attacked random passengers at Shui-an Temple Station, injuring two. Quick action by fellow passengers curbed further injuries.
The investigation uncovered that Hong, driven by dissatisfaction with societal and personal issues, had been plotting since April. He originally planned his attack for May 20 but postponed it to coincide with the anniversary of the 2014 Taipei Metro attack. During questioning, Hong demonstrated full mental clarity, responding precisely without indicating mental impairment.
The incident spurred widespread fear and had a profound societal impact. Hong now faces charges of attempted murder, assault, public intimidation, and making threats, with prosecutors advocating for stringent punishment.
