A newly-elected municipal leader in Germany's western region has been attacked with a knife and suffered severe wounds close to her residence, police say.
Iris Stalzer, 57 years old, is a member of the SPD political group and became the mayor of the municipality in the North-Rhine Westphalia state in last month.
Local police say a significant response is under way in the community. Officials indicate all avenues are being explored, but they are considering a family connection.
Chancellor Friedrich Merz censured what he described as "a terrible crime", adding: "We are concerned about the survival of the mayor-elect, Iris Stalzer, and wish for complete healing."
The party expressed its party members were profoundly stunned by the attack.
Officials say Stalzer's two adopted children - a 17-year-old girl, and a 15-year-old son - contacted emergency services to authorities at noon (11:00 British time).
The minors were later taken away for questioning and evidence collection. A reporter at the scene observed a teenager entering a law enforcement vehicle.
During the summer, there was an family conflict episode in the household, which was recorded by the police, security sources revealed.
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