German Mayor Seriously Wounded in Stabbing Attack, Authorities Report
A recently appointed 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 SPD political group and assumed the mayoral role of the municipality in the North-Rhine Westphalia state in September.
Area law enforcement say a major operation is in progress in the community. Officials indicate all avenues are being explored, but they are considering a family connection.
Chancellor Friedrich Merz condemned what he called "a heinous act", stating: "We fear for the life of the mayor-elect, the victim, and wish for complete healing."
The party expressed its party members were profoundly stunned by the attack.
Officials confirm her two children - a 17-year-old girl, and a 15-year-old son - made an emergency call to police at noon (11:00 British time).
The children were subsequently removed for interviewing and evidence collection. A reporter at the scene witnessed a young person entering a law enforcement vehicle.
This summer, there was an family conflict episode in the family, which was documented by authorities, insiders revealed.
- Public official attacked near home
- Critical condition confirmed
- Probe focuses on family links
- Children made emergency call
