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Life-threatening stabs: Herdecke's mayor is a victim of a family drama
Iris Stalzer, newly elected mayor of Herdecke, was found seriously injured; Investigations into family motives are ongoing.
Life-threatening stabs: Herdecke's mayor is a victim of a family drama
A shocking tragedy rocks the city of Herdecke. Iris Stalzer, the newly elected mayor, was found with serious stab wounds in her apartment on Tuesday, October 7, 2025. It is an incident that is not only causing turmoil in the community, but also in the political landscape far beyond Herdecke.
The 57-year-old SPD politician, who was elected to her new office about a week and a half ago with 52.2% of the vote, was scheduled to be officially inducted on November 1st. Unfortunately, she suffered life-threatening injuries during this time and was flown to hospital in a rescue helicopter. Her condition was critical on the evening of the incident; According to reports, she was briefly conscious and could be questioned to find out more about the background to the terrible act, which is classified as familial.
Investigations underway
The police in Herdecke were on a large scale and secured the crime scene in the politician's apartment. The investigators are concentrating on her adopted daughter, who has come into focus. She and her adopted brother, both teenagers, were taken to the police station to clarify the matter. Evidence suggests that there had been a police-recorded incident of domestic violence in the family in the past. Neighbors also reported an argument in the house before the incident, which added stress to the situation.
Politicians across party lines were dismayed by what happened. The incident triggered a political upheaval that provoked widespread reactions. Although investigators assume there was a familial background to the crime, there is currently no evidence of a politically motivated crime. This is a reassuring aspect at a time when violence against politicians is increasingly an issue in Germany. The numbers show a worrying development, as shown by current statistics published by Statista.
A serious blow for the community
The response to this incident has stirred emotions and shows how fragile the relationship between politics and society can be. Stalzer was very popular with her clear commitment to social issues and her vision for Herdecke. Her upcoming term promised to bring a breath of fresh air to local politics. The community now has hope that Iris Stalzer will survive the serious injuries and can return to her intended role.
The next period will be crucial for the investigators and the entire community. Everyone involved is now waiting with bated breath for further developments in this sad case and for clarification of the questions that are at hand. stern.de reports on this devastating situation and the associated concern for the well-being of the new mayor.