Germany's City Leader Critically Injured in Stabbing Attack, Police Confirm
A recently appointed mayor in Germany's western region has been stabbed and suffered severe wounds close to her residence, authorities state.
Iris Stalzer, 57 years old, is a member of the SPD political group and became the mayor of the municipality in the regional state in September.
Local police report a significant response is under way in the community. Officials indicate every possibility is being checked, but they are not ruling out a family connection.
Chancellor Friedrich Merz censured what he described as "a terrible crime", stating: "We are concerned about the survival of the newly elected mayor, the victim, and wish for complete healing."
The SPD said its members were deeply shocked by the attack.
Officials say Stalzer's two adopted children - a 17-year-old girl, and a 15-year-old son - made an emergency call to authorities at midday local time (11:00 BST).
The children were subsequently removed for questioning and forensic investigation. A reporter at the scene witnessed a young person getting into a police patrol car.
During the summer, there was an family conflict episode in the household, which was documented by authorities, security sources said.
- Mayor stabbed near home
- Severe injuries reported
- Probe examines domestic angles
- Children made emergency call
