Barber disarmed attacker after MP Helen Haines hit by car
A barber removed a knife from a man accused of hitting independent MP Helen Haines with a car, keeping him calm until police arrived.
A barber helped restrain a man accused of deliberately hitting independent MP Helen Haines with a Toyota LandCruiser outside her Wangaratta electorate office on Monday afternoon. The 65-year-old MP suffered critical injuries and was airlifted to Melbourne for emergency surgery.
Ricky Jefferies, working at a nearby barbershop, noticed the driver had a knife and removed it from his pocket. He then stood over the man and kept him calm, speaking reassuringly until police arrived.
Another bystander reportedly sat in front of the moving vehicle to prevent the driver from escaping. A 43-year-old man identified as Brendan Nugent was arrested.
Counter-terrorism authorities are assisting the investigation.
- Helen Haines, 65, independent MP
- The MP
- Brendan Nugent, 43 years old
- The suspect
- Wangaratta, Monday afternoon about 3.35pm
- Location and time
- Toyota LandCruiser
- Vehicle used
Why it mattersThe attack targeted an elected official and required multiple bystanders to intervene to prevent further serious harm.
AustraliaAn Australian MP faces life-threatening injuries following an attack in Victoria, prompting a major police and counter-terrorism response.
Corroborated byperthnow.com.au
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