German Mayor Seriously Injured in Knife Attack
German mayor Iris Stalzer was seriously injured in a knife attack just weeks after her election. Police are searching for suspects while the motive remains unknown. The incident has sparked concerns about political violence in Germany.
Iris Stalzer was elected mayor of Herdecke just three weeks ago. The 57-year-old SPD politician won with 52.2% of votes in the September 28 runoff election.
Security sources report Stalzer was found in her apartment with multiple stab wounds. Police launched a major operation at her home in western Germany.
Chancellor Friedrich Merz expressed horror about the attack on social media. He said authorities must quickly solve this terrible crime from Herdecke. Merz added his thoughts are with Stalzer's family and he hopes for her recovery.
No suspects have been arrested according to reports. Police continue searching for the perpetrators.
The motive remains unclear. Investigators have not determined if the attack was politically motivated.
Stalzer represents Germany's center-left Social Democratic Party. She is a trained lawyer according to her website.
Herdecke is located in North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany's most populous state. The city lies in the industrial Ruhr region.
The SPD declined to comment on the ongoing investigation. This violent attack on a newly elected official raises serious security concerns for politicians across Germany.