Helen Haines hit by 4WD in alleged deliberate attack
A white Landcruiser hit independent federal MP Helen Haines outside her Wangaratta office. She remains in critical condition.
Helen Haines was hit by a 4WD on Monday afternoon outside her electoral office in Wangaratta, Victoria. Helen Haines was retrieving items from the boot of her car.
A 43-year-old man is in custody. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said the vehicle allegedly did a U-turn before driving at her.
He called it a deliberate act, not an accident. Haines suffered severe lower leg injuries.
She had emergency surgery. A taskforce was set up with Victoria Police, the Australian Federal Police and ASIO.
The Joint Terrorism Task Force was also started. Threats against politicians are rising.
Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke cited 1067 reports of threats against high-office holders last year. This was up from 951 the year before.
- 43 years old
- Age of man in custody
- 1067 reports
- Threats last year
- 951 reports
- Prior year threats
- Murphy St, Wangaratta, Victoria
- Location
Why it mattersThe attack shows rising threats against Australian politicians. It raises questions about how safe they are in public spaces.
AustraliaThis incident directly affects political safety in Australia and may prompt the federal government to review security arrangements for MPs working in regional areas.
Corroborated bycrikey.com.au
✓ Claims checked against the source and corrected before publish. checked 2 h ago
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