German Mayor Critically Injured in Knife Assault, Police Confirm
A recently appointed mayor in western Germany has been attacked with a knife and suffered severe wounds near her home, police say.
The official, 57 years old, is a affiliate of the SPD political group and assumed the mayoral role of the municipality in the North-Rhine Westphalia state in September.
Area law enforcement report a major operation is in progress in the community. Investigators say every possibility is being checked, but they are considering a domestic link.
The Chancellor condemned what he called "a heinous act", stating: "We fear for the life of the mayor-elect, the victim, and wish for complete healing."
The SPD said its party members were deeply shocked by the incident.
Officials say Stalzer's two adopted children - a 17-year-old girl, and a 15-year-old son - contacted emergency services to police at midday local time (11:00 British time).
The children were subsequently removed for questioning and forensic investigation. A reporter at the scene observed a young person getting into a law enforcement vehicle.
This summer, there was an family conflict episode in the family, which was recorded by the police, insiders said.
- Public official attacked near home
- Critical condition confirmed
- Probe focuses on domestic angles
- Minors alerted authorities