Helen Haines loses both legs in deliberate car attack
Independent MP Helen Haines lost both legs. She was struck by a car in what police say was a deliberate attack.
Helen Haines was hit by a Toyota LandCruiser outside her local office in Wangaratta, Victoria on Monday afternoon. The driver, 43-year-old Brendan Nugent, was arrested moments after the incident.
Nugent faces three charges: dangerous driving causing serious injury, intentionally causing serious injury, and causing harm to a Commonwealth official. Police are considering more charges, including attempted murder.
Her husband Phil told reporters she is recovering and remains mentally strong. Police are still investigating why this happened.
Nugent has not asked for bail and is due back in court in February.
- Helen Haines lost both legs in the attack
- Both legs lost
- Driver arrested moments after the incident
- Brendan Nugent, 43
Why it mattersAn unprovoked attack on a sitting MP with no prior warning raises urgent questions. These questions concern political safety and security in Australia.
AustraliaPolitical violence is extraordinarily rare in Australia; this incident has shocked the community and sparked debate over safety for MPs.
✓ Claims checked against the source. checked 5 h ago
Open this story in InSnip →
