German City Leader Seriously Wounded in Knife Assault, Police Confirm

A newly-elected mayor in western Germany has been attacked with a knife and suffered severe wounds near her home, police say.

The official, 57 years old, is a member of the SPD political group and assumed the mayoral role of the municipality in the North-Rhine Westphalia state in September.

Area law enforcement say a significant response is in progress in the community. Investigators say all avenues are being explored, but they are considering a family connection.

The Chancellor censured what he described as "a terrible crime", adding: "We are concerned about the survival of the newly elected mayor, the victim, and wish for complete healing."

The SPD expressed its party members were deeply shocked by the incident.

Authorities say her two children - a 17-year-old girl, and a 15-year-old son - made an emergency call to police at midday local time (11:00 BST).

The minors were subsequently removed for interviewing and forensic investigation. A reporter at the scene witnessed a teenager entering a law enforcement vehicle.

During the summer, there was an incident of domestic violence in the family, which was recorded by the police, security sources revealed.

• Mayor attacked at residence
• Severe injuries confirmed
• Probe examines family links
• Children alerted authorities