From BBC News · · 2m
Wangaratta reels after attack on MP Helen Haines
An independent Australian MP was struck by a car outside her office in a targeted attack that has shocked her rural community.
In brief
An independent Australian MP was struck by a car outside her office in a targeted attack that has shocked her rural community. Helen Haines, an independent federal MP, had both legs amputated after being struck by a car in a targeted attack outside her Wangaratta office on Monday. A local man faces charges including…
MP struck by car in targeted attack
Helen Haines, an independent federal MP, was struck by a car outside her office in Wangaratta on Monday afternoon. Police say it was a targeted and deliberate attack.
Haines loses both legs in the attack
Haines was airlifted to Melbourne where she had to have both legs amputated. Her husband Phil said her heart and mind were in good shape.
Local man charged with multiple offences
Brendan Nugent, a local man, faces at least three charges including intentionally causing harm. He appeared in court on Wednesday. Police are considering further charges including attempted murder.
Community cannot fathom the attack
Wangaratta residents say Haines is not a divisive figure and cannot understand why she was targeted. Governor-General Sam Mostyn said people were dumbfounded by the tragedy.
“People are simply dumbfounded and finding it very hard to fathom the scale of this tragedy”
Haines known for anti-corruption work
First elected in two thousand nineteen, Haines is best known for her years-long efforts to establish a national anti-corruption commission, which opened in two thousand twenty-three.
MP thanked rescuers while injured
Bystanders who came to Haines' aid recalled how she thanked them even as she lay severely injured. She spoke about her grandchildren and remained calm throughout.
“She just thanked everyone”
Barbershop owner helped restrain suspect
Ricky Jefferies, who owns RickyChops barbershop next to Haines' office, rushed out and pinned down the suspect. He said he was just a person who had an opportunity to intervene safely.
“I don't think I'm a hero. I think that I just was a person who had an opportunity to intervene in a safe-ish sort of way”
Community holds vigil for Haines
A vigil was held at Holy Trinity Anglican Cathedral, attended by a couple of hundred people who lit candles for Haines. Her husband said he received thousands of messages of support.
Husband says recovery will be long
Phil Haines said the community support makes a difference to his family. He described Helen as a fighter and said her road to recovery will be long and difficult.
“Helen's road to recovery will be long and difficult, but we know she is a fighter”
What to remember
Helen Haines, an independent federal MP, had both legs amputated after being struck by a car in a targeted attack outside her Wangaratta office on Monday. A local man faces charges including intentionally causing harm.
