Independent Australian MP Helen Haines has lost a leg after a suspected intentional vehicle attack outside her office in Wangaratta, Victoria. She is in critical condition following emergency surgery, according to officials.
The 65 year old lawmaker was hit by a white Toyota Land Cruiser on Monday afternoon while loading or unloading items from her parked car.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese stated that early reports indicated the driver made a U turn before hitting Haines, labeling the event as deliberate rather than accidental.
Witnesses told Australian media that the vehicle struck Haines and then reversed to hit her again. A bystander intervened, helping to restrain the driver until police arrived.
Counter Terrorism Authorities Investigate
A 43 year old man has been arrested and is in police custody. A knife was reportedly found in his vehicle, and authorities are investigating the circumstances surrounding the attack.
The Australian Federal Police, Australian Security Intelligence Organisation, and a joint counter terrorism task force are collaborating with Victoria Police on the investigation.
Authorities are examining the motive, including whether the attack was politically motivated. Police have described the incident as seemingly isolated and have not officially connected it to terrorism.
Possible charges include harming a public official, which could result in a maximum prison sentence of 10 years.
Bystander Aids in Detaining Suspect
Local barber Ricky Jefferies rushed from his shop after hearing the crash and helped restrain the alleged attacker. Reports state he also removed a knife from the suspect before police took over.
Emergency workers treated Haines at the scene before transporting her to a hospital in Wangaratta and later to Melbourne for specialized care. Doctors amputated one of her legs during surgery, and her condition remains critical as they work to save her other leg.
Haines’ family expressed gratitude to the public and medical professionals for their assistance and requested privacy during her treatment.
Australian Leaders Condemn the Attack
Prime Minister Albanese expressed concern over the incident, stating his thoughts are with Haines, her family, and her community. He urged Australians to temper political debates, noting an increase in threats against politicians in recent years.
Haines has served as the independent MP for Indi since 2019. Before her political career, she worked in nursing, midwifery, and academia.
This attack has raised concerns about the safety of public officials in Australia, where elected representatives typically engage with constituents at community events with minimal security.
Investigations are ongoing, focusing on the suspect’s actions and motives, with authorities emphasizing that further evidence will determine the case’s conclusions.