German Mayor Critically Injured in Stabbing Attack, Police Confirm
A newly-elected municipal leader in western Germany has been attacked with a knife and left critically injured close to her residence, police say.
Iris Stalzer, 57, is a member of the centre-left Social Democratic party (SPD) and assumed the mayoral role of Herdecke in the North-Rhine Westphalia state in September.
Local police report a major operation is in progress in the small town. Investigators say every possibility is being checked, but they are not ruling out a family connection.
Chancellor Friedrich Merz condemned what he called "a terrible crime", adding: "We are concerned about the survival of the newly elected mayor, the victim, and hope for a full recovery."
The party said its members were deeply shocked by the attack.
Authorities confirm Stalzer's two adopted children - a daughter, 17, and a 15-year-old son - contacted emergency services to police at midday local time (11:00 British time).
The minors were later taken away for questioning and evidence collection. A reporter at the scene witnessed a teenager getting into a law enforcement vehicle.
During the summer, there was an incident of domestic violence in the household, which was documented by authorities, insiders said.
- Public official stabbed at residence
- Severe injuries reported
- Police investigation focuses on domestic angles
- Minors made emergency call
