German Mayor Critically Injured in Knife Attack
German Mayor Iris Stalzer faces life-threatening injuries after a knife attack in Herdecke. The newly elected official was stabbed just weeks after taking office. Authorities are investigating the motive behind this shocking political violence.
Mayor Iris Stalzer of the German city Herdecke suffered life-threatening injuries in a knife attack. Authorities confirmed the attack involved multiple stab wounds. Emergency services rushed Stalzer to a nearby hospital for urgent treatment.
The attack occurred just weeks after Stalzer took office on September 28. Herdecke sits in North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany's most populous western state. Police have launched a full investigation but have not yet identified a motive.
German officials described the injuries as critical and potentially fatal. The attack shocked local residents who recently elected Stalzer as their municipal leader.
Political violence against local officials remains relatively rare in Germany. This incident raises security concerns for public figures across the region. Authorities increased protection measures for other elected officials following the attack.
What prompted this violent assault remains unclear. Investigators continue gathering evidence at the scene while Stalzer fights for her life in hospital.