In brief
On Monday in Wangaratta, Victoria, independent MP Helen Haines was struck by a car, losing a leg and ending up in critical condition. The 43‑year‑old suspect, identified as environmental activist Brendan Nugent, was arrested and charged with dangerous driving, intentional injury and harming a public official. Neighbors rushed to help; a local barber removed a knife, and residents airlifted Haines to Melbourne for surgery. Police say the incident was targeted, but no other threats are known, and the community remains in shock.
On Monday in Wangaratta, Victoria, independent MP Helen Haines was struck by a car, losing a leg and ending up in critical condition.
The 43‑year‑old suspect, identified as environmental activist Brendan Nugent, was arrested and charged with “dangerous driving causing serious injury,” “intentionally causing serious injury,” and a federal offence of harming a public official.
Neighbors rushed to help; a local barber removed a knife from the suspect, and the crowd helped airlift Haines to Melbourne for surgery.
Police say the incident was targeted and that no other threats are known. The community has left bouquets and candles at Haines’ office, and the town is still in shock.
This attack has sparked worry about safety for public officials and brought new conversations into Australian politics.
Check out the 60‑second recap on SnapScope to see how the community is rallying around Haines.
