A newly elected mayor in western Germany was critically injured Tuesday in a stabbing attack outside her home, officials and news agencies reported, prompting a criminal investigation and condemnation from national leaders.
Iris Stalzer, 57, who was elected mayor of the North Rhine-Westphalia town of Herdecke on Sept. 28 and was due to take office in November, was found with multiple stab wounds around midday and taken to hospital in critical condition, local police and broadcasters said.
Authorities launched a major operation at the scene. Investigators have not ruled out any line of inquiry but said they currently see no clear evidence of a political motive and are exploring a possible family connection as they question people close to the victim.
German federal leaders condemned the attack. Chancellor Friedrich Merz described it as a “heinous act” and expressed his hope for Stalzer’s recovery, while prosecutors and police in North Rhine-Westphalia said a full probe into how and why the assault happened was under way.
Reporting from Reuters and other outlets said that members of Stalzer’s family were present at the scene and were being questioned; one report said a teenage son was removed from the scene wearing clothing to preserve evidence, though authorities stressed that questioning and any possible charges remain part of the ongoing investigation.
The attack has renewed concern in Germany about physical threats and violence faced by public officials; recent reporting has highlighted an increase in threats and assaults against politicians, fueling calls for better protections for elected representatives.
Police asked the public to avoid speculation while investigators piece together the timeline and motive. Officials said they would release further details as the inquiry progresses.
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