Rehab patient throws metal cabinet from building, narrowly missing pedestrians in Banqiao

A chaotic scene unfolded in Banqiao, New Taipei City, when a metal cabinet plummeted from a building, narrowly missing a woman and child playing on the sidewalk, as well as passing traffic. The incident occurred around 7 p.m. on July 27th, causing alarm among onlookers who initially mistook the falling object for a signboard.

Police investigation revealed that a male patient with schizophrenia from a rehabilitation center on the third floor of the building had a psychotic episode and threw the cabinet. Emergency services were called to forcibly take the patient for medical treatment. The incident is being investigated for potential public endangerment charges.

However, the event has sparked public outcry, with residents questioning the rehabilitation center's management and oversight. They argue that the center failed in its duty of care, potentially leading to a tragedy. Calls have been made for the health bureau to investigate the center's practices, emphasizing the need for accountability when patient episodes result in danger to the public.

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The center should fulfill its care and maintenance responsibilities. If a patient throws a cabinet downstairs, causing accidental injury or death to innocent people, who will be responsible? Must a life or death situation occur before the operator or relevant authorities pay attention?