Taiwan Faces Tragedy: Driver Detained After Drug-Fueled Crash Injures Cyclists

A cycling tour in Changhua County turns into a nightmare as a drug-impaired driver causes severe injuries, sparking calls for stricter enforcement and raising concerns about road safety.

Taipei, Taiwan - April 24, 2025 - In a shocking incident that has sent ripples of concern across Taiwan, a driver has been formally detained following a collision with a group of cyclists in Changhua County. The suspect, identified as Hsiao (蕭), is facing charges of negligent injury and endangering public safety while under the influence of drugs.

According to the Changhua District Prosecutors Office, Hsiao was reportedly driving "strangely and dangerously" moments before the accident, which occurred on Section 3 of Changshui Road in Pitou Township. The collision resulted in injuries to seven teenage students participating in a cycling tour, with one student in critical condition.

Tests confirmed that Hsiao, 41, tested positive for narcotics in both blood and urine samples. Authorities also discovered drug paraphernalia within his vehicle at the scene. Preliminary investigations suggest that Hsiao had used heroin, amphetamines, and etomidate prior to the incident, potentially rendering him impaired while operating the vehicle.

Following the accident, Hsiao reportedly attempted to evade contact from investigators and allegedly attempted to destroy evidence. The court subsequently approved the prosecutors' request to detain Hsiao and hold him incommunicado, citing the severity of the charges and the risk of flight or further destruction of evidence.

Under Taiwan's Criminal Code, an individual who negligently causes serious physical injury can face imprisonment of up to three years (Article 284). Additionally, driving under the influence of drugs is also punishable by imprisonment for up to three years (Article 185).

Photo courtesy of a private contributor April 22, 2025

Photo courtesy of Kang Chiao International School April 24, 2025

Kang Chiao International School, the organizer of the cycling tour involving around 30 teachers and students, confirmed that a 15-year-old student, initially in critical condition, regained consciousness on Wednesday and is now in stable condition at National Taiwan University Hospital (NTUH). The injured student had previously received treatment at Erlin Christian Hospital and Changhua Christian Hospital, including surgery for severe head trauma. Two other seriously injured students were also transferred to Taipei for further treatment, while the remaining students involved in the crash have returned home after receiving treatment in Changhua.

Despite the traumatic event, members of the group are continuing their cycling tour around the island. The school expects them to complete their trip on Friday, as originally planned.