New details have emerged about the violent attack on newly elected mayor of Herdecke, Iris Stalzher, 57, who was stabbed multiple times in her home.

According to Bild, authorities discovered two knives – a kitchen knife and another blade – inside the room of her 15-year-old adopted son. One of the knives, found in his backpack, had traces of blood, along with blood-stained clothing believed to belong to Stalzher’s 17-year-old adopted daughter.

Blood Cleanup Attempted Before Emergency Call

Investigators revealed that efforts had been made to clean up the scene before the emergency call was placed. However, blood traces were detected again using forensic methods. Authorities suspect Stalzher may have been gravely injured and left in an armchair while someone attempted to remove evidence of the attack.

Out of Immediate Danger After 13 Stab Wounds

Stalzher reportedly suffered 13 stab wounds, mostly to her upper body, and serious head trauma from a blunt object. Doctors managed to stabilize her, but life-threatening injuries to vital organs, including her lungs, had initially raised concerns.

Ursula Sennberg, head of the police operation, confirmed that Stalzher is now out of danger and recovering in hospital.

Mayor Names Her Adopted Daughter as the Attacker

Authorities confirmed that the violent incident occurred inside the family home, where both adopted children were present. They were both taken in for questioning. According to Homicide Division Chief Jens Rautenberg, Stalzher identified her 17-year-old adopted daughter as the attacker while in the hospital. The attack is believed to have taken place in the basement of the house.

Sources report that the relationship between mother and daughter had been strained for some time, with a serious altercation occurring last summer. There were also reported tensions with the 15-year-old son.

Police Investigation Ongoing – No Arrest Warrant Issued

On Wednesday, the day after the attack, police continued searching the mayor’s home in Herdecke-Herrentisch. The prosecutor’s office announced that the case is no longer being treated as attempted murder, but rather as grievous bodily harm, which did not warrant an arrest warrant at this time.

The two minors are expected to be released and placed under the supervision of juvenile welfare services.