Municipal Election Candidate in Germany Stabbed

German police officials have reported that Henriette Reker, a candidate for the mayoral election in Cologne, was injured on Saturday, October 17, by a knife wielded by a man opposed to the country's immigration policies. According to the Associated Press, Reker was injured in the neck while attending a campaign event organized by the Christian Democratic Union in one of the city's markets. Police state that Ms. Reker's condition is 'stable,' although her injuries are serious. Four other individuals were also injured in this attack. Reports indicate that 58-year-old Henriette Reker has been responsible for social affairs and the integration of immigrants in Cologne. Another woman was also injured in the attack and is reported to be in critical condition, while the injuries of three other victims are superficial. Norbert Wagner, a senior criminal police official, stated that the assailant is a 44-year-old German citizen who is currently in custody. He added that the assailant has been unemployed for several years and declared his motive for attacking Ms. Reker as 'opposition to foreigners.' Wagner also mentioned that it appears the assailant acted alone. The municipal elections in Germany are scheduled to take place on Sunday.