Man charged with attack on Australian MP as suspect's father says she is family friend
Australian MP Helen Haines is in critical condition after being struck by a car in what police allege was a targeted attack. A 43-year-old man has been charged with serious offenses, including causing harm to a public official.
Why it matters
The incident highlights rising concerns regarding the safety of public officials and the increasing frequency of threats against politicians.
Image source, AFP via Getty Images Image caption, The community in Wangaratta remains in shock after the alleged attack
A 43-year-old man has been charged after Australian MP Helen Haines was hit by a car in Victoria state on Monday.
The suspect will appear in court on Wednesday to face charges of dangerous driving causing serious injury, intentionally causing serious injury and the federal offence of causing harm to a public official.
Local media earlier named the alleged attacker as environmental activist Brendan Nugent. His father and his partner said they had been friends with Haines "for more than 20 years" and thanked residents and officers who helped her after the "shocking and horrific crime".
Haines remains in a critical condition after surgery and is reported to have lost one of her legs.
Headlinne story · 8 newsrooms
Australian Lawmaker Helen Haines Loses Both Legs After Vehicle 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