German Mayor Critically Injured in Knife Assault, Authorities Report
A newly-elected mayor in Germany's western region has been attacked with a knife and suffered severe wounds close to her residence, authorities state.
Iris Stalzer, 57 years old, 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 last month.
Area law enforcement report a major operation is under way in the small town. Officials say every possibility is being checked, but they are considering a family connection.
The Chancellor censured what he called "a terrible crime", stating: "We are concerned about the survival of the mayor-elect, the victim, and wish for complete healing."
The party said its party members were deeply shocked by the attack.
Officials say her two children - a 17-year-old girl, and a teenage boy - contacted emergency services to authorities at noon (11:00 BST).
The children were subsequently removed for interviewing and evidence collection. A journalist present observed a teenager entering a police patrol car.
This summer, there was an incident of domestic violence in the family, which was recorded by the police, insiders said.
- Mayor attacked near home
- Critical condition confirmed
- Probe focuses on family links
- Minors alerted authorities
