Germany's City Leader Critically Injured in Stabbing Attack, Authorities Report

Placeholder — A large-scale police operation is now under way in the town

Scene Image — A large-scale police operation is now under way in the town

A newly-elected mayor in western Germany has been stabbed and left critically injured near her home, authorities state.

The official, 57 years old, is a member of the SPD political group and became the mayor of Herdecke in the North-Rhine Westphalia state in last month.

Local police say a major operation is under way in the community. Officials say all avenues are being explored, but they are not ruling out a family connection.

The Chancellor censured what he called "a heinous act", stating: "We are concerned about the survival of the mayor-elect, the victim, and hope for a full recovery."

The party expressed its party members were deeply shocked by the attack.

Authorities confirm her two children - a daughter, 17, and a 15-year-old son - contacted emergency services to police at midday local time (11:00 BST).

The children were later taken away for questioning and forensic investigation. A journalist present observed a young person getting into a law enforcement vehicle.

This summer, there was an family conflict episode in the household, which was documented by authorities, security sources said.