UPDATE - 3 dead, 5 injured after man stabs people, throws smoke grenade at Taiwan metro station

UPDATES WITH FRESH DEATH TOLL; REVISES HEAD, DECK, LEDE

By Saadet Gokce

ISTANBUL (AA) — Three people were killed and five others injured after a man carried out a stabbing attack and threw a smoke grenade at a metro station in Taiwan on Friday, local media reported.

The smoke grenade detonated inside Taipei Main Station, Taiwan’s busiest railway hub, killing a 57-year-old man, according to TVBS News.

The assailant, identified as a 27-year-old man surnamed Chang, was reportedly wanted for draft evasion. He was armed with a blade and smoke grenades, according to reports.

Chang was also reported to have burned down his apartment, car, and two motorcycles before the attack.

Police recovered 25 Molotov cocktails from a hotel room where he stayed two days ago.

The assailant was also carrying firebombs during the attack.

The attacker died after jumping down from a rooftop while confronting police.

Taiwanese leader William Lai Ching-te urged the public to remain calm and follow official guidance, particularly in crowded areas and transport hubs.

"If you see suspicious people, items or situations, please report to police and station staff immediately," he said.