Eco-warrior Brendan Nugent charged

Brendan Nugent, an anti-Israel activist from Tarrawingee, Victoria, has been charged with intentionally causing serious injury to federal MP Helen Haines.

Helen Haines injured

Helen Haines, 65, a mother-of-three and grandmother, suffered severe lower-body injuries after being struck by Nugent's white Toyota Land Cruiser on Murphy Street in Wangaratta.

Haines lost a leg

Surgeons amputated Haines' leg, and her other leg remains at risk due to the severity of her injuries.

Haines in hospital

Haines remains in critical condition at Melbourne's Alfred Hospital after emergency surgery following the attack.

Nugent's family statement

Nugent's parents have stated they have been friends with Haines for more than 20 years and will assist police in the investigation.

“What happened to her yesterday is devastating and unfathomable. We would like to sincerely thank members of the local community and police who came to Helen's aid yesterday after the shocking and horrific crime. We will be assisting Victoria Police in any way we can.”

Barber intervenes

Local barber Ricky Jefferies apprehended Nugent after he allegedly drove a Toyota Land Cruiser into Haines, and restrained him until police arrived.

Prime Minister's response

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese praised Jefferies for his intervention, calling him a hero who may have prevented further injuries.

Haines' background

Haines, a nurse, midwife, and academic before entering politics, was known for advocating rural health and integrity in government.

Haines' political role

Haines, first elected to Parliament in 2019, has been re-elected twice and was a key figure in establishing the National Anti-Corruption Commission.

Haines' hospital transfer

Haines was initially taken to Wangaratta hospital before being airlifted to Melbourne's Alfred Hospital, 236km away.

Haines' family statement

Haines' family thanked bystanders, health workers, and police for their assistance and requested privacy for the MP.

Haines' background

Haines was the daughter of dairy farmers and mother of three, with a strong advocacy for rural health matters.

Haines' injuries

Haines suffered severe lower-body injuries after being struck by Nugent's Land Cruiser multiple times on Murphy Street.

Haines' political impact

Haines was widely respected in Canberra and nationally as a strong voice for integrity and honesty in politics.

Haines' family statement

Haines' family requested that the public and media respect their privacy and keep her in their thoughts.

Haines' hospital status

Haines remains in critical condition at Melbourne's Alfred Hospital after emergency surgery following the attack.