Australian MP’s Health Improves after Vehicle Attack
Australian MP Helen Haines, who was struck by a car in northeast Victoria five days ago, has improved from critical to serious but stable condition. The 65-year-old independent MP had both legs amputated after what police describe as a planned attack outside her electorate office in Wangaratta, northeast of Melbourne, on Monday.
Haines remained in serious but stable condition at Melbourne’s Alfred Hospital in Saturday morning’s update, the first improvement since she was flown there. Brendan Nugent, 43, was arrested immediately after the event and has subsequently appeared in court on three charges in connection with the alleged attack.
The politician’s husband, Phil Haines, said on Wednesday the “horrendous incident” had left his wife with serious injuries but “her heart and her mind” were “in good shape”. His lawyer said his client has “mental health concerns” but gave no further details.
Victoria Police said their investigation, with assistance from the Australian Federal Police, was underway and they had not yet identified a motive.
Investigators are looking at whether drugs or prescription were involved in the occurrence.
Nugent’s family has indicated they were long-time friends with Haines.
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said on ABC television shortly after the alleged incident that there had been a “rise in temperature” and “too much shouting, not enough discourse” in Australia.
Haines, who has backed more climate action and worked as a nurse and midwife, enters parliament in 2019.
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