Independent MP Helen Haines critically injured in Wangaratta attack

Federal independent MP Helen Haines is in critical condition after being struck by a vehicle outside her electorate office in Wangaratta in northern Victoria on Monday. The Guardian

Haines, who sits in federal parliament as an independent, was hit on Murphy Street outside the office at about 3:30pm by a Toyota LandCruiser. ABC She was airlifted from Wangaratta to the Alfred Hospital in Melbourne for emergency surgery on Monday night and has since undergone surgery.

Witnesses have alleged the driver made a U-turn into the car park and rammed Haines against a vehicle, then reversed and struck her a second time. Police have not detailed a motive, and the circumstances are under investigation.

A 43-year-old Tarrawingee man who allegedly drove the LandCruiser was arrested at the scene. Acting Superintendent Ashley Mason said police expected to interview him on Tuesday.

Ricky Jeffries, whose barbershop is next door to Haines' office, pulled the driver from the vehicle and held him until police arrived. Jeffries alleged the driver had a knife in his pocket, which he took out and threw away without using it.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said Haines was attacked outside her electorate office in Victoria. Reuters A terrorism squad is examining the vehicle attack that left her critically injured.

Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke said there were 1,067 reports of harassment or threats against high office holders in Australia in the last financial year, up from 951 the year before.