Australian MP's condition improves after alleged car attack
News Source
β’Sat, 24 Oct 2026 01:55:15 GMT
π° What Happened
Australian MP Helen Haines is improving after a car hit her outside her office in Wangaratta, Victoria. Her condition moved from critical to serious but stable, the Alfred Hospital said on Saturday. The 65-year-old independent MP had both legs amputated.
Police say the driver hit her on purpose on Monday. Brendan Nugent, 43, has been charged with dangerous driving causing serious injury, intentionally causing serious injury and harming a Commonwealth official. Police say more charges, including attempted murder, are possible.
π The Backstory
Haines worked as a nurse before she entered politics. She has represented the rural seat of Indi in north-east Victoria since 2019 and is known for pushing for a national anti-corruption body.
Police say they have not established a motive and are looking at whether drugs or medication played a part. Nugent's lawyer has raised mental health concerns but gave no detail.
π― Why It Matters
Attacks on elected officials worry communities and can push people away from public life. Haines is a well-known local MP in a small country town.
Australian MP Helen Haines is improving after a car hit her outside her office in Wangaratta, Victoria. Her condition moved from critical to serious but stable, the Alfred Hospital said on Saturday. The 65-year-old independent MP had both legs amputated.
Police say the driver hit her on purpose on Monday. Brendan Nugent, 43, has been charged with dangerous driving causing serious injury, intentionally causing serious injury and harming a Commonwealth official. Police say more charges, including attempted murder, are possible.
Haines worked as a nurse before she entered politics. She has represented the rural seat of Indi in north-east Victoria since 2019 and is known for pushing for a national anti-corruption body.
Police say they have not established a motive and are looking at whether drugs or medication played a part. Nugent's lawyer has raised mental health concerns but gave no detail.
Attacks on elected officials worry communities and can push people away from public life. Haines is a well-known local MP in a small country town.