German City Leader Critically Injured in Stabbing Attack, Police Confirm
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.
The official, 57 years old, is a member of the centre-left Social Democratic party (SPD) and assumed the mayoral role of the municipality in the North-Rhine Westphalia state in September.
Area law enforcement report a major operation is under way in the small town. Officials say all avenues are being explored, but they are considering a family connection.
Chancellor Friedrich Merz censured what he described as "a heinous act", adding: "We are concerned about the survival of the mayor-elect, Iris Stalzer, and hope for a full recovery."
The party expressed its party members were profoundly stunned by the attack.
Officials say Stalzer's two adopted children - a daughter, 17, and a 15-year-old son - contacted emergency services to authorities at noon (11:00 BST).
The children were later taken away for interviewing and evidence collection. A reporter at the scene observed a young person entering a law enforcement vehicle.
During the summer, there was an incident of domestic violence in the household, which was documented by authorities, security sources said.
- Mayor attacked near home
- Critical condition confirmed
- Police investigation focuses on family links
- Children alerted authorities