German Mayor Critically Injured in Stabbing Attack

Newly Elected Mayor Iris Stalzer Fights for Life After Violent Assault

In a shocking incident that has sent shockwaves through Germany, newly elected mayor Iris Stalzer of Herdecke was critically injured in a stabbing attack on October 7, 2025. The 57-year-old Social Democratic Party (SPD) politician was found with life-threatening stab wounds near her home in the Ruhr region town.

Attack Details and Immediate Response

According to police reports, the attack occurred around midday near Stalzer's residence in Herdecke, a town of approximately 33,000 residents located south of Dortmund. The mayor sustained multiple stab wounds to her abdomen and back during the assault. 'She managed to drag herself back to her apartment after the attack and alerted her 15-year-old adopted son, who immediately called emergency services,' a police spokesperson stated.

Emergency services responded rapidly, with airlifting the critically injured mayor to a nearby hospital where she remains in intensive care. The scene was immediately sealed off as investigators began their work. 'This is an abhorrent act that has shaken our community to its core,' said a local council member who requested anonymity.

Political Background and Recent Election

Iris Stalzer had just been elected mayor of Herdecke on September 28, 2025, winning the runoff election with 52.2% of the vote against her CDU opponent Fabian Haas. Her term was scheduled to begin on November 1, 2025. Stalzer, a labor law attorney by profession, had previously served on Herdecke's city council and had been active in local politics for years.

Interestingly, Stalzer's political journey included a transition from Bündnis 90/Die Grünen to the SPD in 2014, demonstrating her evolving political engagement. Born in Frankfurt am Main in 1968, she grew up in Herdecke as the daughter of a steelworker, giving her deep roots in the industrial Ruhr region.

Investigation and Potential Motives

German authorities have launched a comprehensive investigation into the attack. While initial reports from Die Welt suggest the attack may not be politically motivated, investigators are examining all possible angles. The presence of Stalzer's 17-year-old adopted daughter at the scene during the attack has added complexity to the investigation.

'We are considering all possibilities, including personal disputes and political motivations,' a senior police official told reporters. 'The fact that this attack occurred just days after her election victory cannot be ignored in our investigation.'

National Reaction and Political Climate

The attack has drawn swift condemnation from across the political spectrum. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz expressed his horror on social media platform X, stating: 'We have heard the news about a heinous crime in Herdecke. We fear for the life of the incoming mayor and hope for full recovery. My thoughts are with her family and loved ones.'

This incident occurs against a backdrop of increasing concerns about political violence in Germany. A recent study found that 60% of German politicians have experienced violence at least once, highlighting the growing risks faced by public officials. The attack on Stalzer follows the 2019 murder of conservative politician Walter Lübcke, who was killed by a far-right activist for his pro-refugee stance.

Community Impact and Ongoing Developments

The town of Herdecke, known for its picturesque location between two Ruhr reservoirs and historic half-timbered houses, has been deeply affected by the attack. Local residents have expressed shock and disbelief that such violence could occur in their community.

As the investigation continues, police are conducting a large-scale manhunt using helicopters and specialized units. The 15-year-old adopted son has been taken in for questioning as authorities search for potential evidence. The case has reignited debates about security for local politicians and the increasing polarization in German politics.

The Federal Criminal Police Office has warned that such attacks erode democratic participation by discouraging community leaders from public service. As Iris Stalzer fights for her life in hospital, the nation watches and waits for answers about this brutal attack on democracy itself.