German City Leader Seriously Wounded in Stabbing Attack, Authorities Report
A recently appointed municipal leader in Germany's western region has been attacked with a knife and suffered severe wounds close to her residence, police say.
Iris Stalzer, 57 years old, is a affiliate of the centre-left Social Democratic party (SPD) and became the mayor of Herdecke in the regional state in last month.
Local police say a significant response is under way in the community. Investigators indicate every possibility is being checked, but they are considering a domestic link.
Chancellor Friedrich Merz condemned what he described as "a heinous act", adding: "We fear for the life of the mayor-elect, Iris Stalzer, and hope for a full recovery."
The SPD said its members were profoundly stunned by the incident.
Officials say her two children - a 17-year-old girl, and a 15-year-old son - made an emergency call to authorities at midday local time (11:00 British time).
The children were later taken away for questioning and forensic investigation. A reporter at the scene observed a teenager getting into a law enforcement vehicle.
This summer, there was an family conflict episode in the household, which was documented by authorities, security sources said.
- Public official stabbed at residence
- Critical condition reported
- Police investigation examines family links
- Minors alerted authorities
