German City Leader Critically Injured in Stabbing Attack, Police Confirm
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.
The official, 57 years old, 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 say a significant response is under way in the community. Investigators indicate all avenues are being explored, but they are not ruling out a domestic link.
Chancellor Friedrich Merz condemned what he described as "a heinous act", stating: "We are concerned about the survival of the mayor-elect, Iris Stalzer, and hope for a full recovery."
The SPD expressed its members were profoundly stunned by the incident.
Officials confirm Stalzer's two adopted children - a 17-year-old girl, and a 15-year-old son - contacted emergency services to police at midday local time (11:00 British time).
The children were subsequently removed for questioning and forensic investigation. A reporter at the scene witnessed a teenager getting into a police patrol car.
This summer, there was an incident of domestic violence in the household, which was recorded by the police, security sources revealed.
- Public official stabbed at residence
- Critical condition confirmed
- Police investigation examines family links
- Children made emergency call
