TAIPEI, Taiwan (AP) - The suspect in a deadly knife and grenade attack in Taiwan's capital meticulously planned the assault for over a year, according to police reports released on Monday. The attacker, identified as 27-year-old Chang Wen, violently stabbed passers-by and deployed smoke grenades on Friday at a Taipei metro station and the surrounding streets before fleeing into a department store. While being pursued by law enforcement, he fell to his death from the fifth floor of the store.

The shocking assaults have sent ripples through Taiwan, a place where violent crime is exceptionally rare. In response, authorities are stepping up security measures in crowded locations and at significant public events. Chang's attack was particularly insidious, as he executed it in distinct phases, changing his clothing and modes of transportation multiple times—transitioning from riding a scooter to biking and then proceeding on foot. In the course of his rampage, he also set fire to his own apartment, damaged roads, and caused destruction to cars and motorbikes.

Li Hsi-Ho, the chief of Taipei's police, characterized Chang as "extremely cunning" during a Monday news conference. He revealed that the suspect had been preparing for the attack since April 2024, acquiring smoke grenades, gas canisters, respirators, and other tools for execution. Li stated, "He had been planning the crime for a year and a half, and his motive for the crime also began a year and a half ago."

Authorities are still investigating Chang's motives, but it has been revealed that he was wanted since July for not reporting to military service. Although he had previously served voluntarily in the military, he was discharged for drunken driving. Disturbingly, Chang had not been in contact with his family for over two years.

As of the latest reports, five injured individuals remain hospitalized, with one in intensive care but in stable condition following surgery. The community grapples with the shock of such unprecedented violence, underscoring the need for vigilance in public safety.