A newly-elected mayor in Germany's western region has been attacked with a knife and suffered severe wounds near her home, authorities state.
The official, 57 years old, is a member of the SPD political group and became the mayor of Herdecke in the regional state in last month.
Local police say a significant response is in progress in the small town. Officials indicate every possibility is being checked, but they are not ruling out a family connection.
Chancellor Friedrich Merz condemned what he called "a heinous act", stating: "We are concerned about the survival of the newly elected mayor, Iris Stalzer, and hope for a full recovery."
The SPD expressed its party members were deeply shocked by the incident.
Authorities confirm Stalzer's two adopted children - a 17-year-old girl, and a 15-year-old son - made an emergency call to police at midday local time (11:00 BST).
The children were later taken away for interviewing and evidence collection. A journalist present witnessed a young person getting into a law enforcement vehicle.
During the summer, there was an family conflict episode in the family, which was recorded by the police, security sources said.
- Public official attacked near home
- Severe injuries reported
- Probe focuses on domestic angles
- Minors alerted authorities
