MP Helen Haines fights for life after ‘attack’

Independent MP Helen Haines fights for life after being struck by a car in an alleged targeted attack.

The full report

Independent federal MP Helen Haines is fighting for her life after she was struck by a car in an apparent targeted attack. The incident occurred outside her electorate office on Murphy Street in Wangaratta, Victoria, just after 3:30 pm on Monday.

According to the ABC, Ms Haines was undergoing emergency surgery in Melbourne after sustaining severe lower-body injuries in the incident. The 43-year-old driver of the Toyota was detained at the scene by a local barber in a dramatic citizen's arrest.

The driver, from Tarrawingee, is known to police and is expected to undergo a mental health assessment. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese described the incident as an 'attack' and said a major police investigation was underway, involving the Australian Federal Police, Victoria Police, and ASIO.

The Joint Counter-Terrorism Team has also been activated. The Prime Minister said it was 'too early' to suspect any motive behind the incident, but added that Ms Haines was a 'well-loved member of her community' and that the incident would come as an 'incredible shock' to her community.

A crime scene was in place, and the driver was taken to Wangaratta police station for questioning. Police are investigating whether the attack was politically motivated, but no motive has been confirmed. The driver was also found to be in possession of a knife.