Tensions Rise in Taiwan: Dispute Over Drinks Leads to Shocking Attack, Mayor Responds

A seemingly minor incident at a beverage shop in Taoyuan escalates into violence, leaving a child injured and sparking public concern.

In a disturbing incident that has shaken the community, a 44-year-old woman, identified as Liao, was involved in a violent altercation at a beverage shop in Taoyuan, Taiwan, this morning. The dispute reportedly began over a simple drink order.

The situation quickly escalated when Liao allegedly produced a short knife and threatened the shop employee. The incident took a tragic turn when the owner of a neighboring beauty salon intervened. The owner's 3-year-old daughter was subsequently injured, sustaining a stab wound to her back during the altercation.

Following the incident, Taoyuan Mayor Chang San-cheng (張善政) expressed deep concern and immediately contacted the Department of Health to assess the young girl's condition. He has instructed the police and health authorities to promptly investigate the circumstances surrounding the event.

According to reports, the incident began around 10:00 AM at a hand-shaken beverage shop on Long'an Street in Taoyuan District. The 50-year-old woman initially placed an order, and then claimed to be the property owner, demanding that the employee call the shop manager. After speaking with the manager, the woman became enraged, reportedly smashing the employee's phone and causing further damage to the counter. She then pulled out a small knife, leading to a heated confrontation with the shop employee before attacking the neighbor.