Australian MP's condition improves after alleged car attack
Australian MP Helen Haines' condition has improved from critical to serious but stable after she was deliberately hit by a car, resulting in the amputation of both her legs. The alleged attacker, Brendan Nugent, faces charges including dangerous driving and intentionally causing serious injury, with police investigating potential attempted murder and possible mental health or drug use factors.
Why it matters
This incident highlights the vulnerability of public officials to targeted violence and raises concerns about political polarization and mental health issues impacting public safety. It also underscores the severity of attacks against elected representatives.
Image source, Getty Images Image caption, Helen Haines had both her legs amputated after what authorities say was a deliberate attack
The condition of Helen Haines, the Australian MP hit by a car five days ago in north-east Victoria, has improved from critical to serious but stable.
The Independent MP, 65, had both her legs amputated after what authorities say was a deliberate attack outside her electorate office in Wangaratta, north-east of Melbourne, on Monday.
In the latest update on Saturday morning, the Alfred Hospital in Melbourne said Haines was in a serious but stable condition, the first improvement since she was airlifted there.
Her alleged attacker, 43-year-old Brendan Nugent, was arrested shortly after the incident and has since appeared in court on three charges.
Headlinne story · 5 newsrooms
Hospital Updates Condition of Australian Lawmaker Injured in Car Attack
What every outlet reported, where they differ, and how each framed it →
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in