The newly elected mayor of Herdecke, a town of about 20,000 people in western Germany’s North Rhine‑Westphalia, is in critical condition after a brutal attack on October 7.
Iris Stalzer, 57, a Social Democrat who won the mayoral race last month, was found at her home with multiple stab wounds to her neck and abdomen. Her son says she staggered into her house after being attacked by several men.
Police were dispatched immediately and cordoned off the street outside Stalzer’s house. Investigators have not ruled out “close family involvement” and are questioning her 15‑year‑old son and 17‑year‑old daughter. The police force did not give details on how quickly they arrived or who called for help.
Stalzer was air‑lifted by helicopter to a nearby hospital for emergency surgery. She remains in life‑supporting treatment.
Her attack comes at a time of growing concern about violence against German politicians. Last year, about 60 % of German officials said they had faced threats or attacks while campaigning. The incident follows a highly contested election in which Stalzer defeated an incumbent conservative mayor.
German Chancellor Friedrich Merkel called the incident “an abominable act” on the social media platform X. In a post, he expressed deep concern for Stalzer’s life and urged a thorough investigation.
Police officials in North Rhine‑Westphalia are yet to comment on the latest developments. The attack raises fresh questions about safety for public office holders in Germany’s political landscape.
Source: New York Post
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