Germany's City Leader Seriously Wounded in Knife Assault, Police Confirm
A newly-elected municipal leader in western Germany has been stabbed and suffered severe wounds near her home, authorities state.
The official, 57, 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.
Local police report a major operation is under way in the community. Investigators indicate every possibility is being checked, but they are not ruling out a family connection.
Chancellor Friedrich Merz censured what he called "a heinous act", stating: "We are concerned about the survival of the newly elected mayor, Iris Stalzer, and hope for a full recovery."
The party said its members were profoundly stunned by the attack.
Authorities confirm her two children - a daughter, 17, and a 15-year-old son - made an emergency call to police at noon (11:00 BST).
The children were later taken away for interviewing and forensic investigation. A journalist present observed a young person getting into a law enforcement vehicle.
This summer, there was an family conflict episode in the family, which was recorded by the police, insiders said.
- Mayor attacked at residence
- Critical condition reported
- Police investigation examines domestic angles
- Minors made emergency call
