A wave of shock has rippled through Germany following the horrific discovery of Iris Stalzer, the newly elected mayor of a town in western Germany. She was found in her apartment on Tuesday, October 7, 2025, suffering from severe stabbing wounds. Chancellor Friedrich Merz swiftly condemned the incident, labelling it an “abhorrent act.”
Ms. Stalzer, a member of the centre-left Social Democrats – the junior partner in Germany’s conservative-led national government – had only just been elected mayor of Herdecke on September 28. Her promising political career now faces an unforeseen challenge as she battles life-threatening injuries.
According to reports from the German news agency dpa, citing undisclosed security sources, Mayor Stalzer sustained multiple stab wounds, leaving her in critical condition. Authorities in Herdecke have confirmed a major police operation is underway in the town as they investigate the assault.
Chancellor Merz took to social media to express his profound concern, stating, “we fear for the life of mayor-elect Iris Stalzer and hope for her full recovery.” The incident has ignited widespread worry across the nation, highlighting concerns for public safety and the security of elected officials.