In brief
In a dramatic incident on Monday, Independent MP Helen Haines was struck twice by a car outside her office in Wangaratta, Victoria. The driver, a 43‑year‑old environmental activist named Brendan Nugent, was arrested and now faces dangerous driving and serious injury charges. Haines suffered a critical injury, losing a leg and undergoing surgery. The incident is considered a targeted attack, with Victoria Police noting no other threats connected to it. The incident has rattled the local community, with residents and bystanders helping immediately after the crash.
In a shocking turn of events on Monday, Independent Member of Parliament Helen Haines was struck twice by a car outside her office in Wangaratta, Victoria.
The driver, 43-year-old Brendan Nugent, an environmental activist, was arrested and now faces charges of dangerous driving causing serious injury, intentional serious injury and a federal offence for causing harm to a public official.
Haines suffered a critical injury, losing a leg and undergoing surgery at a Melbourne hospital. Police say the incident was a targeted attack with no other known threats connected.
The community remains shocked, with local residents and bystanders rushing to help immediately. A mayoral vigil in the cathedral saw people lighting candles and leaving bouquets outside the MP’s office.
Brendan Nugent’s father and partner have called the MP a family friend for more than twenty years, thanking the public for their support while promising to assist Victoria Police.
The incident has highlighted growing threats to politicians in Australia and sparked renewed calls for safeguarding measures.
