Germany's City Leader Seriously Wounded in Knife Assault, Police Confirm
A newly-elected mayor in Germany's western region has been stabbed and left critically injured near her home, police say.
Iris Stalzer, 57 years old, is a affiliate of the centre-left Social Democratic party (SPD) and became the mayor of Herdecke in the regional state in September.
Area law enforcement report a significant response is under way in the community. Officials say every possibility is being checked, but they are considering a domestic link.
The Chancellor condemned what he described as "a terrible crime", adding: "We fear for the life of the newly elected mayor, the victim, and wish for complete healing."
The party said its members were profoundly stunned by the attack.
Authorities confirm her two children - a daughter, 17, and a teenage boy - made an emergency call to police at midday local time (11:00 BST).
The children were later taken away for questioning and evidence collection. A journalist present witnessed a young person entering a law enforcement vehicle.
This summer, there was an family conflict episode in the family, which was recorded by the police, security sources revealed.
- Public official stabbed at residence
- Critical condition reported
- Probe examines family links
- Minors made emergency call
