The Taipei District Prosecutors’ Office has filed charges against the manager and co-owner of a Xinyi District bar following the death of a young engineer who participated in a high-risk drinking challenge last year.
The incident occurred in September when a 25-year-old engineer from Taiwan’s Hsinchu Science Park, identified as Mr. Chang, took part in the bar’s “One Liter of Tears” alcohol challenge. According to police, Chang consumed one liter of a vodka-based cocktail called “Soulbreaking Passion Fruit” in just eight minutes. He reportedly made multiple trips to the restroom during the night and was found dead the following morning in the shopping mall’s restroom.
Investigators concluded that both the bar’s responsible person, surnamed Tseng, and the manager, surnamed Chen, should have known that consuming large amounts of alcohol in a short period could be fatal. They have been charged with involuntary manslaughter for hosting a promotional event with clear health risks.
The bar issued a statement expressing deep regret over the incident and pledged full cooperation with ongoing investigations. The statement noted that the “Holy Grail” series of events, including the drinking challenge, had been held several times and were popular among patrons. Following the tragedy, the bar announced it has permanently stopped the challenge and will focus on promoting responsible and healthy drinking practices in the future.
A forensic examination confirmed that Chang’s death was caused by acute alcohol poisoning, classifying it as an accidental death.
