Australian MP Helen Haines' Condition Improves After Alleged Car Attack
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Australian MP's Condition Improves After Alleged Car Attack
Image source: Getty Images
Image caption: Helen Haines had both her legs amputated after what authorities say was a deliberate attack.
By Chris Graham
Published 1 hour ago
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, aged 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, Brendan Nugent, 43, was arrested shortly after the incident and has since appeared in court on three charges.
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Figure caption: Shock and disbelief: How the attack on an Australian MP unfolded in a small rural town
Nugent, who was arrested moments after he allegedly drove his Toyota LandCruiser into the MP, appeared in court to face three charges: dangerous driving causing serious injury, intentionally causing serious injury, and causing harm to a Commonwealth public official. Police said more charges might be laid, including attempted murder.
Her husband, Phil Haines, said on Wednesday that the "horrendous incident" had caused his wife significant injuries but "her heart and her mind" were "in good shape".
Nugent's family has said they were long-time friends with Haines.
Shortly after the alleged attack, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese told ABC television that there had been a "rise in temperature" and "too much shouting, not enough discourse" in Australia.
Haines, known for stances such as supporting stronger climate action, entered parliament in 2019 after working as a nurse and midwife.