Independent MP Helen Haines Loses Both Legs After Alleged Car Attack

Australian independent MP Helen Haines has lost both legs after being struck by a car in what authorities say was a deliberate attack, according to her husband, Phil Haines (BBC).

Haines is the federal member for the regional Victorian seat of Indi. An independent is a member of parliament who does not belong to a political party. The incident happened on Monday afternoon, at around 3.35pm local time, outside her electorate office in Wangaratta, a regional town about 240 kilometres northeast of Melbourne. Police allege that a 43-year-old man, Brendan Nugent, drove a Toyota LandCruiser into her. Witnesses alleged the vehicle repeatedly rammed into the 65-year-old MP, according to the ABC. Bystanders pulled Nugent from the vehicle and detained him until police arrived.

Nugent, described by the ABC as a Tarrawingee man, was charged on the night of 20 October. He faces three charges: dangerous driving causing serious injury, intentionally causing serious injury, and causing harm to a Commonwealth public official, meaning an official of the federal government. Police have said more charges may be laid, including attempted murder. He has appeared in court for the first time and has not been found guilty of any offence.

Court documents also show he was charged with cultivating and possessing cannabis. He did not apply for bail, and he is due back in court in February.

Victoria Police are leading the investigation, supported by the Australian Federal Police. Police said a motive for the attack has not yet been established.

The ABC reported on 21 October that Haines remains in hospital in critical but stable condition.