Tainan, Taiwan — November 26, 2025
A man surnamed Hsu appeared in Tainan District Court today to plead guilty to charges of murdering his bedridden father earlier this year, shortly before the Lunar New Year. Hsu allegedly suffocated his father by placing a plastic bag over his head, leading to his death. Due to the sensitive nature of the case, it was not heard in the National Court to prevent further harm.
During the procedural hearing, Hsu admitted his actions in court. Present in the courtroom were his sister and daughter, who urged the judge to consider a lighter sentence.
Family Details Circumstances
Hsu’s sister testified that their parents had been bedridden for several years and that Hsu had been the primary caregiver. After their mother passed away, their father became unable to walk and required constant care. She explained that Hsu handled nearly all daily needs, including feeding, diaper changes, and suctioning phlegm, while she could only visit when free.
She added that Hsu had expressed deep sadness prior to the Lunar New Year, and the family had little opportunity to discuss alternative care arrangements. She informed the prosecutor that the family had reached an unconditional settlement and did not intend to pursue inheritance claims. She asked the court to be lenient, emphasizing that her brother had devoted his life to caring for their parents and that their father would not have wanted him to endure further suffering.
Hsu’s daughter also spoke in his defense, explaining that she suffers from a rare condition called plexus headache, which requires her to spend most of her time at home recuperating. She described her father’s role in managing both the care of his bedridden parents and household responsibilities. She said the combined pressure of caregiving and her own health issues had driven him to the brink, and she requested that the court consider reducing his sentence.
Pending Sentencing
The Tainan District Court is currently reviewing the case. In determining Hsu’s sentence, the court will take into account his admission of guilt, the long-term care he provided to his parents, and the family’s pleas for leniency. The court will issue its ruling in accordance with regulations concerning the killing of a direct blood relative.
The case remains under judicial review, with sentencing still pending.