Kaohsiung, Taiwan — October 4, 2025
The Kaohsiung High Court has upheld a four-year prison sentence against a man surnamed Xu, who attempted to attack his ex-girlfriend’s home with a petrol bomb following their breakup. The court found Xu guilty of public endangerment, emphasizing the premeditated and dangerous nature of his actions.
According to the court’s findings, Xu and the victim, a woman surnamed Yang, were previously in a relationship. After Yang ended the relationship, Xu became consumed by anger and sought revenge. In the early hours of July 23, 2023, Xu allegedly stole a vehicle license plate to disguise his identity and affixed it to his own car before driving to Yang’s residence in Youchang, Nanzi District.
Armed with a homemade petrol bomb, Xu threw the device into the bathroom window of the residence. The explosive ignited upon impact, causing damage to the property but fortunately resulting in no injuries.
Authorities launched an immediate investigation after receiving the report. Using surveillance footage and forensic evidence, including traces of Xu’s DNA found on a rope at the scene, police were able to identify and arrest him. He was subsequently charged by the Qiaotou District Prosecutors Office with attempted arson and public endangerment.
In the first trial, Xu was sentenced to four years in prison. He appealed the verdict, arguing that a two-meter-high retaining wall at the scene made it impossible for him to commit the act. However, the High Court rejected his defense, citing compelling evidence such as video surveillance and material proof linking him to the crime.
The Kaohsiung High Court ruled that Xu’s actions demonstrated deliberate intent and posed a serious risk to human life. The court emphasized that his conduct could have resulted in severe consequences had the fire spread further.
With the High Court’s decision, the original four-year sentence stands. The ruling may still be subject to further appeal.