A newly-elected mayor in western Germany has been stabbed and left critically injured near her home, according to police. Iris Stalzer, 57, a member of the centre-left Social Democratic party (SPD), became the mayor of Herdecke in North-Rhine Westphalia in September.
Local police have initiated a major operation in the small town, stating that all investigative avenues are being explored, including the possibility of a family connection. Chancellor Friedrich Merz called the attack 'a heinous act,' expressing fear for Stalzer's life and wishing her a full recovery. The SPD described its members as deeply shocked by the news.
First Deputy Mayor Dennis Osberg expressed his dismay and hope for Stalzer's quick recovery after the attack on Tuesday. Reports indicate that Stalzer suffered multiple injuries to her chest and abdomen. After receiving treatment at the scene, she was airlifted to a hospital in Bochum.
Stalzer, who narrowly won the mayoral election last month and had not yet been sworn in, was at home when her two adopted children—a 17-year-old daughter and a 15-year-old son—made an emergency call to authorities around midday local time. Following the incident, the children were taken for questioning as forensic experts arrived to investigate the scene.
Earlier this summer, there was a reported incident of domestic violence within the family, indicating a lengthy history that may relate to the current situation.
