German City Leader Critically Injured in Stabbing Attack, Authorities Report
A recently appointed municipal leader in Germany's western region has been attacked with a knife and left critically injured close to her residence, authorities state.
Iris Stalzer, 57 years old, is a affiliate of the centre-left Social Democratic party (SPD) and assumed the mayoral role of Herdecke in the regional state in last month.
Local police say a major operation is under way in the small town. Investigators say all avenues are being explored, but they are considering a family connection.
The Chancellor censured what he called "a terrible crime", stating: "We fear for the life of the newly elected mayor, Iris Stalzer, and hope for a full recovery."
The party expressed its members were profoundly stunned by the attack.
Officials say Stalzer's two adopted children - a daughter, 17, and a 15-year-old son - made an emergency call to authorities at noon (11:00 British time).
The children were later taken away for interviewing and forensic investigation. A journalist present 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.
- Mayor attacked at residence
- Critical condition confirmed
- Police investigation examines family links
- Children made emergency call