**Title: Rampage in South Korean Commuter Town Leaves 14 Injured**
*Seongnam, South Korea – A man in a South Korean commuter town went on a violent rampage, injuring 14 people on Thursday. The incident occurred near the capital Seoul, shocking the nation amid a recent spate of similar attacks.*
Police authorities reported that the perpetrator rammed his car into pedestrians before exiting the vehicle and proceeding to stab multiple individuals. The attack took place in Seongnam, a town located approximately 20 kilometers from Seoul, known for its bustling commercial areas and residential neighborhoods.
According to media reports, the assailant, described as a man in his 20s with a delivery job, was seemingly targeting random victims. Additionally, sources mentioned that the suspect was struggling with mental health issues. The motive behind the attack remains unclear at this time.
Eyewitnesses revealed that after crashing into a group of pedestrians, the attacker entered a nearby shopping mall, intensifying the chaos. Videos circulated on social media appeared to capture scenes of the assailant chasing frightened shoppers. However, the authenticity of these videos has not been independently verified by Reuters.
Law enforcement and firefighting officials confirmed that a total of 14 people were injured in the incident. Among the victims, nine individuals suffered stab wounds, while the remaining five were hit by the car. Two victims are currently in critical condition, raising concerns about their recovery.
Contradicting earlier reports from Newsis news agency, police officials denied the existence of any fatalities resulting from the attack. The severity of the injuries, however, highlights the severity of the incident.
As investigations continue at the crime scene, cleaners were seen removing blood stains outside the shopping mall on Friday morning. Police Commissioner General Yoon Hee-keun issued a statement cautioning South Koreans to remain vigilant against such attacks and emphasizing the need for authorities to remain watchful for potential copycat crimes.
The recent surge in stabbing incidents has rattled the nation, prompting officials to focus on enhancing security measures and ensuring public safety. South Korea is grappling with the aftermath of another rare stabbing attack that claimed one life and injured three others just days before this incident.
Authorities are urging citizens to report any suspicious activity and to remain alert in crowded public spaces. The investigation into this tragedy is ongoing as the community grapples with the aftermath of this horrific event.
*Reporting by Hyonhee Shin and Minwoo Park, Soo-hyang Choi; Editing by Andrew Cawthorne, Ed Davies, and Shri Navaratnam*