Germany's City Leader Seriously Wounded in Knife Assault, Police Confirm
A newly-elected mayor in western Germany has been attacked with a knife and suffered severe wounds near her home, authorities state.
The official, 57 years old, is a affiliate of the centre-left Social Democratic party (SPD) and assumed the mayoral role of Herdecke in the North-Rhine Westphalia state in September.
Area law enforcement say a significant response is in progress in the community. Officials say every possibility is being checked, but they are considering a family connection.
Chancellor Friedrich Merz censured what he called "a heinous act", stating: "We are concerned about the survival of the newly elected mayor, the victim, and wish for complete healing."
The SPD said its party members were deeply shocked by the incident.
Authorities confirm her two children - a 17-year-old girl, and a 15-year-old son - contacted emergency services to authorities at midday local time (11:00 British time).
The children were subsequently removed for questioning and evidence collection. A journalist present witnessed a young person entering a law enforcement vehicle.
This summer, there was an incident of domestic violence in the family, which was documented by authorities, insiders revealed.
- Public official attacked at residence
- Severe injuries confirmed
- Police investigation focuses on domestic angles
- Children made emergency call
