MP Haines Condition Improves to Serious but Stable After Wangaratta Car Attack
The Alfred Hospital upgraded the status of the independent MP five days after she was struck by a vehicle.
By Alessia Romano ·
Helen Haines, the independent member of parliament for Wangaratta, moved out of critical condition on Saturday morning. The Alfred Hospital in Melbourne announced the change in status to serious but stable. This marked the first improvement in her health since she was airlifted to the facility following the incident on Monday.
Haines, 65, was deliberately struck by a car outside her electorate office in north east Victoria. The impact forced surgeons to amputate both of her legs. Her husband, Phil Haines, described the event as a horrendous incident on Wednesday. He stated that her heart and mind remained in good shape despite the physical injuries.
Police arrested Brendan Nugent, 43, shortly after the strike. He drove a Toyota LandCruiser into the MP. Nugent appeared in court to face three charges: dangerous driving causing serious injury, intentionally causing serious injury, and causing harm to a Commonwealth public official. His lawyer cited mental health concerns but provided no specific details to the court.
Victoria Police, supported by the Australian Federal Police, continue to investigate the motive. Investigators are examining whether drug use or medication played a role in the driver's actions. Nugent's family stated they were long time friends of Haines. Authorities said further charges, including attempted murder, could follow.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese commented on the event soon after the attack. He told ABC television that Australia had seen a rise in temperature and too much shouting, not enough discourse. Haines entered parliament in 2019 after a career as a nurse and midwife.
She is known for supporting stronger climate action. The investigation remains ongoing as police work to establish a definitive motive for the deliberate strike.
