Germany's Mayor Seriously Wounded in Knife Assault, Authorities Report
A newly-elected mayor in Germany's western region has been stabbed and left critically injured near her home, authorities state.
The official, 57 years old, is a member of the centre-left Social Democratic party (SPD) and became the mayor of Herdecke in the regional state in September.
Local police report a major operation is in progress in the community. Officials indicate every possibility is being checked, but they are not ruling out a family connection.
Chancellor Friedrich Merz condemned what he called "a terrible crime", stating: "We fear for the life of the newly elected mayor, Iris Stalzer, and wish for complete healing."
The party expressed its members were profoundly stunned by the attack.
Authorities confirm her two children - a daughter, 17, and a 15-year-old son - contacted emergency services to authorities at noon (11:00 British time).
The children were later taken away for questioning and evidence collection. A reporter at the scene witnessed a teenager entering a law enforcement vehicle.
This summer, there was an family conflict episode in the family, which was recorded by the police, insiders revealed.
- Mayor attacked near home
- Severe injuries confirmed
- Probe focuses on domestic angles
- Children made emergency call
