Car attack critically injures MP Helen Haines
Independent MP Helen Haines was critically injured when a driver allegedly struck her with a car outside her Wangaratta electorate office on Monday afternoon; a suspect is in custody. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said the act was deliberate, with the joint counter-terrorism.
Independent MP Helen Haines remains in critical condition after an alleged deliberate car attack outside her Wangaratta office, escalating concerns over rising threats against Australian politicians. The incident, now investigated by a joint counter-terrorism taskforce, has resulted in severe injuries, charges against the suspect, and a broader spotlight on the safety of public officials.
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Deliberate act with U-turn and double strike
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese stated the attack was not an accident, citing witness accounts that the driver performed a U-turn before striking Haines. The driver allegedly hit her twice, and investigators are treating it as a targeted act involving a deliberate maneuver to reach her. [1] [3] [6]
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Critical injuries including leg amputation
Helen Haines was airlifted to Melbourne’s Alfred hospital in critical condition, where she underwent emergency surgery. Her family confirmed she lost one leg and surgeons are working to save the other; she remains in critical but stable condition. [3] [6] [7]
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Suspect charged and counter-terrorism probe underway
Brendan Nugent, 43, was charged with dangerous driving causing serious injury, intentionally causing serious injury, and causing harm to a commonwealth public official. The Australian Federal Police, Victoria Police, and ASIO are investigating under the joint counter-terrorism taskforce, with police alleging the attack was targeted. [1] [2] [8]
