Helen Haines has both legs amputated after alleged attack

Federal MP Helen Haines has had both legs amputated after she was hit by a car outside her office in Wangaratta, her husband, Phil Haines, has confirmed. The Guardian reported that he said she is alive and stable.

Haines, 65, is the federal member for the seat of Indi in Victoria. She was struck on Monday, 19 October 2026, outside her Wangaratta office. Police allege the attack was targeted.

Earlier reports described her as being in critical but stable condition. Surgeons tried to save one of her legs, but both had to be amputated because of her injuries. Phil Haines told the media on Wednesday that his wife's left leg was amputated on Monday and that surgeons later amputated both. 7News carried his update.

Speaking at the Alfred hospital in Melbourne on Wednesday, Phil Haines said his wife's heart and mind were in good shape. He was joined by Governor-General Sam Mostyn. CNN reported that the couple have been married for 40 years.

Victoria Police's Security Investigation Unit charged a man, Brendan Nugent, 43. He faces charges of dangerous driving causing serious injury and intentionally causing serious injury. He is also charged with a Commonwealth, or federal, offence of causing harm to a Commonwealth public official.

Nugent appeared before Wangaratta Magistrates' Court on Wednesday. The BBC reported that he appeared in court silent and emotionless.