Incheon Attacker Targeted Vulnerable People to Gain Public Attention
A 59-year-old man in Incheon attacked ten people, leaving a 19-year-old critical, claiming he wanted public attention. Bystanders helped neutralize the suspect.
A 59-year-old man suspected of carrying out a violent attack told investigators that he targeted people he perceived as weaker than himself, aiming to draw public attention and air his grievances. Local police announced this on Wednesday.
The attack took place on Tuesday afternoon local time, injuring a total of ten people, according to police reports.
Condition of Victims and Medical Response
One of the victims, a 19-year-old young woman, was rushed to the hospital in cardiac arrest. She underwent emergency surgery and her heart began beating again, but as of Wednesday, she remains unconscious and connected to a ventilator. Five other injured individuals are receiving treatment in hospitals, while two have recovered from their injuries at home. Two remaining individuals were not physically injured and returned home.
According to police, the suspect stated during interrogation that he harbored a grudge against a hospital where he received treatment for a foot fungus, claiming his condition did not improve. Since August, he had staged lone protests outside the institution, occasionally carrying a weapon. According to a report by the Korea Herald, the man was already investigated in September on suspicion of carrying a weapon in a public place and was angered that the hospital reported him to authorities.
"I committed the act to draw attention and bring my complaints to the public's attention," the suspect was quoted as telling investigators. "I did not choose specific targets. I chose people who looked weaker than me. I did not intend to kill them."
Suspect's Background and Public Response
Police also reported that the suspect was previously convicted of attempting to murder his ex-wife and served a four-year prison sentence. He was released in 2019, and at the time of Tuesday's attack, he was wearing an electronic monitoring bracelet.
Authorities stated he carried a large quantity of prescription medications. A rapid drug test came back negative, and police requested further testing. Meanwhile, authorities are considering whether to disclose the suspect's identity, including his name, age, and photos.
During the attack, bystanders and commercial workers threw chairs and other objects at the suspect, helping police neutralize him. Police are considering awarding certificates of appreciation to five individuals who helped subdue him. The city of Incheon is also considering ways to honor the intervening citizens and recommend them for government awards.
