German City Leader Seriously Wounded in Stabbing Attack, Police Confirm
A recently appointed municipal leader in western Germany has been stabbed and suffered severe wounds near her home, police say.
Iris Stalzer, 57, is a affiliate of the SPD political group and assumed the mayoral role of Herdecke in the regional state in September.
Area law enforcement say a significant response is in progress in the community. Investigators say every possibility is being checked, but they are considering a family connection.
The Chancellor censured what he called "a terrible crime", stating: "We are concerned about the survival of the newly elected mayor, the victim, and wish for complete healing."
The party expressed its party members were deeply shocked by the attack.
Officials say Stalzer's two adopted children - a 17-year-old girl, and a teenage boy - made an emergency call to authorities at midday local time (11:00 British time).
The children were later taken away for questioning and evidence collection. A reporter at the scene observed a teenager entering a law enforcement vehicle.
This summer, there was an incident of domestic violence in the family, which was documented by authorities, security sources said.
- Public official stabbed at residence
- Severe injuries reported
- Police investigation examines domestic angles
- Children alerted authorities
