Iris Stalzer, the newly elected mayor of Herdecke, was found with multiple stab wounds at her home in western Germany, sparking a massive police operation.
Authorities say several men are suspected in the attack.
Her condition is critical and the motive remains unknown.
Her son reportedly discovered her and alerted police.
The assault occurred just days after her election on September 28.
Chancellor Friedrich Merz called the event “an abhorrent act,” while investigators have sealed off the area and launched a full inquiry.
No confirmed arrests or identifications have been made yet.
