Overview

• Iris Stalzer, 57, is in critical condition in hospital after suffering multiple stab wounds, according to authorities and local reports.
• Emergency crews treated her at her apartment in Herdecke’s Herrentisch district after her son found her gravely injured.
• She told her son she had been attacked in the street by several men before reaching home, local media reported.
• Police have formed a special homicide unit and are conducting an active search for suspects.
• Officials say the motive is undetermined, with a political motive under consideration; Stalzer was elected mayor on September 28.