Foreign offices in Taiwan express condolences over deadly Taipei knife attack

Taipei, Dec. 20 (CNA) Several foreign representative offices in Taiwan have written messages of condolence after a deadly knife attack in Taipei on Friday that killed three people and injured several others.

In a Facebook post on Saturday, the Czech Economic and Cultural Office in Taipei wrote that it was saddened by the news of the attack in the capital.

"We extend our sincere condolences and stand with the families and loved ones of those affected," the Czech office said.

The Canadian Trade Office in Taipei said in a Facebook post that it was shocked and saddened by what happened. "We extend our heartfelt condolences to the loved ones of those who lost their lives and wish a full and speedy recovery to those injured," it said.

Meanwhile, the Slovak Economic and Cultural Office in Taipei also wrote a message on social media, saying it stands in solidarity with the people of Taipei and hopes for strength, healing, and peace during these difficult times.

As the attack unfolded on Friday, Ruth Bradley-Jones, the United Kingdom's representative to Taiwan, wrote a message on her personal Facebook page, expressing condolences to those affected.

"What a shocking sadness," she said. "Taipei, tonight we grieve together for those who have died and been injured."

The French office in Taipei also expressed similar sentiments, saying it was in full solidarity with the people and authorities of Taiwan.

Also in Facebook post, the American Institute in Taiwan (AIT) on Saturday extended condolences to the victims and families "affected by the senseless and tragic attack" and expressed solidarity with Taiwan.

"We commend the first responders and medical personnel for their swift and courageous actions, and we stand in solidarity, as always, with the people of Taiwan," the AIT said.

On Friday, a 27-year-old suspect Chang Wen (張文), threw smoke grenades in Taipei Main Station, stabbed a man with a knife, then ran to the nearby Zhongshan Station, where he continued his stabbing spree, according to police.

Chang allegedly fell to his death from the sixth floor of the Eslite Spectrum Nanxi building in Taipei when being pursued by police.