An Australian female MP who lost both legs after being deliberately hit by a driver is showing signs of improvement, while the suspect has been brought to court to face charges including causing grievous bodily harm to others involved in the incident.
Foreign news agencies reported on 24 Oct 2026 that Helen Haines, an Australian Member of Parliament, who was hit by a vehicle in northeastern Victoria five days earlier, has improved from a critical condition to a serious one, though her overall state remains stable.
The collision occurred outside the electorate office of 65-year-old MP Haines in Wangaratta, northeast of Melbourne. Police stated the act was deliberate, with local media identifying the driver as 43-year-old Brendan Nugent.
The latest update from Melbourne's Alfred Hospital on Saturday morning marked the first improvement in MP Haines' condition since doctors had to amputate both her legs to save her life.
Suspect Nugent was arrested shortly after the incident and has since been brought before court to face at least three charges: dangerous driving causing serious injury, intentional grievous bodily harm, and causing harm to a Commonwealth official.
Police indicated additional charges, including attempted murder, may be filed. Nugent’s lawyer stated that his client suffers from multiple mental health issues but provided no further details.
Victoria Police said the investigation, assisted by the Australian Federal Police, is ongoing. Investigators are examining whether drugs or substances were involved and are seeking to clarify the exact motive behind the attack.
Helen Haines is an independent MP for the Indi electorate, highly respected and beloved locally. She is known for her firm stances, such as advocating for stricter climate change policies.
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Source:bbc