Iris Stalzer, the newly-elected, independent mayor of Herdecke, was severely injured in an attack outside her home. The preventing event occurred a little before noon regional time. This happened only weeks after she had won her seat in a runoff election on September 28. Stalzer, a member of the center-left Social Democratic Party (SPD), will be officially seated when the new council takes office in November.
People in Herdecke are still in “shock and disbelief” about the attack. Stalzer, 57, a mother of two teenagers, was critically injured. Emergency responders airlifted Sarah to the hospital for immediate treatment. Local officials and advocates have shared their hopes for her speedy recovery but fear for her safety has continued to escalate.
Chancellor Friedrich Merz strongly condemned the attack, calling the targeting of the visitor a “heinous crime.” He went on to share his remarks and condolences to Stalzer’s family and friends during this tragic time. The attack has raised alarm bells within the political community, recalling the tragic murder of local government official Walter Lübcke in 2019. Lübcke was specifically targeted for his history of pro-refugee policies that had earned him deep outrage.
“We fear for the life of the mayor-elect, Iris Stalzer, and hope for her full recovery. My thoughts are with her family and loved ones.” – Chancellor Friedrich Merz
The SPD and other political leadership have rallied around Stalzer. They are pushing a change that would first protect public officials. The attack reveals the political perils that electeds must navigate. It brings to light the surging intolerance in Germany’s political landscape.
As the investigation into the incident unfolds, local authorities are working diligently to gather more information regarding the motives behind the attack. The citizens of Herdecke have expressed their overwhelming support for Stalzer and her family. They know better than anyone how important community support is as these difficult times continue.
