German mayor Iris Stalzer stabbed; attack triggers national debate on political safety

The knife attack on newly elected Herdecke mayor Iris Stalzer has sent shockwaves through Germany, reigniting concerns over the safety of local politicians and the growing threat of politically motivated violence.

Authorities confirmed on Tuesday that Stalzer, 57, was found critically injured in her apartment after suffering multiple stab wounds.

The Social Democrat politician, who won the Herdecke mayoral election less than two weeks ago, remains in intensive care as police pursue an active manhunt for her attacker.

Investigators race to find the assailant

Emergency services were alerted around midday when Stalzer was discovered with life-threatening injuries inside her home in North Rhine-Westphalia.

According to security sources, she had been attacked outside her residence and managed to drag herself indoors before collapsing.

Public broadcaster WDR first reported the incident, adding that forensic teams continued to secure evidence late into the evening.

Authorities have yet to determine the motive behind the attack.

Police said they are examining all possible leads, including potential political connections, while conducting door-to-door inquiries and analysing nearby CCTV footage.

A large-scale manhunt remains underway, with helicopters deployed across the region to assist local law enforcement.

Investigators are expected to brief state prosecutors once the immediate threat assessment concludes.

Political community in shock

The assault on Stalzer, who represents the centre-left Social Democratic Party (SPD), has drawn widespread condemnation across Germany’s political spectrum.

Federal Chancellor Friedrich Merz expressed shock at the “heinous act” on the social platform X, calling for a swift and transparent investigation.

“We fear for the life of the designated mayor, Iris Stalzer, and hope for her full recovery. My thoughts are with her family and loved ones,” Merz wrote.