Man Self-immolates with Gasoline at Gas Station, Involves 2 Others

A man in New Taipei City, Taiwan, pulled out a gasoline nozzle at a gas station and doused himself with fuel before igniting himself. He then rushed toward two people in succession, causing them to suffer burns and requiring hospitalization.

According to Taiwanese media reports, the incident occurred on the evening of the 9th at a gas station on Minzu Road in the Banqiao District of New Taipei City. Police investigations revealed that the perpetrator, a 30-year-old man surnamed Lin, lived in Taipei City and was currently unemployed, suspected to have mental health issues.

After setting himself on fire, Lin lost control and lunged at a 50-year-old armored car security guard surnamed Zeng, who had just finished refueling nearby, causing burns to Zeng's right thigh and buttocks. Upon receiving the report, firefighters arrived at the scene, and upon seeing them, Lin turned and lunged at a firefighter, before being collectively subdued by several firefighters. The Banqiao Fire Brigade of New Taipei City happened to be directly across from the scene of the fire.

Another video angle has emerged, clearly showing the gas station ablaze. Frightened people were fleeing, while others shouted loudly, "There's a fire!"

Police stated that Lin's clothes were completely burned off and his whole body suffered second-degree burns, but he remained conscious. Zeng, the armored car security guard, also sustained second-degree burns and was conscious. Because Lin is still under medical treatment, his statement has yet to be taken. Police will continue to investigate his motive and clarify the reasons behind the incident.

A female scooter rider who was about to refuel at the time later shared her lingering fears on social media, expressing her anger. She said that after work, she wanted to refuel and saw someone on fire. She initially thought it was a simple accident, but it was only after reading the news that she realized someone had deliberately harmed themselves and involved others. The scene kept replaying in her mind, making her heartbeat race, causing her anxiety and making her want to cry.