Australian MP Helen Haines Severely Injured in Intentional Car Attack
Independent MP Helen Haines has undergone surgery after being intentionally struck by a vehicle outside her office in Wangaratta.
Wangaratta, October 20 (Daily Kiran) : Helen Haines, an independent member of the Australian Parliament, was the victim of a life-threatening attack on Monday in Wangaratta, Victoria. A driver deliberately ran over the 65-year-old MP twice outside her electoral office, resulting in severe injuries to both legs. Doctors were forced to amputate one of her legs, while efforts to save the other continue.
Witnesses reported that a Toyota LandCruiser first hit Haines before the driver made a U-turn and struck her again, leaving her trapped beneath her vehicle. Following the incident, Haines was airlifted to Alfred Hospital in Melbourne, where she underwent emergency surgery. Her condition is being closely monitored by medical staff.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese condemned the attack, describing it as a deliberate act rather than a mere accident. The motive behind the assault remains unclear. Police have arrested a 43-year-old man named Brendan Nugent at the scene. Eyewitnesses stated that bystanders pulled the driver from the car and detained him until authorities arrived. A knife was also recovered from Nugent, and the investigation is ongoing, although officials have stated that there is no broader threat to the community.
Nugent’s family expressed their sorrow over the incident in a statement, noting that they have known Haines for over 20 years. They mentioned that they had been concerned about his unusual behavior in recent months. Nugent’s father, Rod, and his partner, Christine Cunningham, pledged to cooperate fully with the Victoria Police.
Haines, who first entered Parliament in 2019, has been re-elected in both 2022 and 2025. She is recognized for advocating issues important to her constituents. The attack has raised concerns about the safety of public representatives in Australia. Prime Minister Albanese expressed support for Haines, commending her dedication to her public service and her community.
Authorities continue to investigate the incident, which they currently consider isolated, with no additional threat to the public reported.
