An 11-year-old girl remains in stable condition after the Miaoli knife attack, which left three people injured near an elementary school. The violent assault has shocked local residents and, consequently, prompted renewed attention to public safety and crime prevention in Miaoli City.
Doctors at China Medical University Hospital explained that the girl, surnamed Ting, suffered a collapsed lung and internal bleeding. Subsequently, surgeons operated on Thursday night to stabilize her breathing and blood pressure. Medical staff continue to monitor her closely in the intensive care unit. Meanwhile, another 11-year-old girl, surnamed Hsu, sustained injuries to her arms, while a 50-year-old man, surnamed Lin, suffered stab wounds to his back and abdomen.
The Miaoli knife attack occurred on Thursday afternoon around 3:40 p.m. in front of a convenience store near Jiangong Elementary School. According to police, the two girls were walking to cram school when the assailant suddenly attacked. Witnesses described scenes of chaos as a teacher carried the injured Ting and shouted for help.
In a courageous act, Lin, a bystander, intervened to protect the girls. His daughter later shared online that he acted to shield the victims from further harm. As a result, paramedics transported him to Da Chien General Hospital, where he received intensive care for multiple stab wounds.
Authorities identified the suspect as a 48-year-old man surnamed Chiu. Witnesses saw him loitering near the convenience store shortly before the Miaoli knife attack began. Subsequently, police tracked his scooter after he fled the scene and arrested him at his home in Miaoli at 4:35 p.m. Investigators are now working to determine his motive and whether he was under the influence of drugs.
Significantly, Chiu’s criminal record includes a prior stabbing spree involving four victims. He served eight years in prison and was released in March. Consequently, this history raises questions about rehabilitation programs and post-release monitoring for violent offenders.
In response to the attack, local officials expressed concern about public safety near schools. Community leaders therefore called for stronger surveillance and faster emergency response systems to prevent similar incidents. Law enforcement also plans to review security measures around educational facilities and increase patrols in the area.
The Miaoli County Police Bureau continues its investigation. Furthermore, prosecutors will assess the suspect’s mental state and criminal responsibility. Authorities expect to release further details after forensic and toxicology tests conclude.
Ultimately, the Miaoli knife attack has sparked widespread debate about crime prevention, offender reintegration, and community protection. Residents now demand swift legal action and improved safety measures to protect vulnerable groups, especially children.
