Germany's Mayor Seriously Wounded in Stabbing Attack, Authorities Report
A newly-elected mayor in Germany's western region has been attacked with a knife and left critically injured close to her residence, authorities state.
Iris Stalzer, 57, is a affiliate of the centre-left Social Democratic party (SPD) and became the mayor of the municipality in the North-Rhine Westphalia state in September.
Area law enforcement say a major operation is under way in the community. Officials say every possibility is being checked, but they are not ruling out a family connection.
The Chancellor censured what he described as "a heinous act", stating: "We are concerned about the survival of the mayor-elect, Iris Stalzer, and wish for complete healing."
The party said its members were profoundly stunned by the incident.
Officials confirm Stalzer's two adopted children - a daughter, 17, and a 15-year-old son - contacted emergency services to authorities at noon (11:00 BST).
The children were later taken away for questioning and evidence collection. A reporter at the scene observed a young person entering a police patrol car.
This summer, there was an incident of domestic violence in the household, which was recorded by the police, security sources said.
- Mayor attacked near home
- Severe injuries confirmed
- Probe examines family links
- Children alerted authorities
