Australian MP Helen Haines' car attack leads to investigation and calls for civility
Federal independent MP Helen Haines appeared before a Melbourne court on charges that she had been deliberately struck by a vehicle driven by Brendan Nugent in Wangaratta, where the driver remained silent as authorities continued their investigation into the motive. The hearing confirmed that the incident is being treated as a serious assault on a public official. The attack, in which a Toyota Landcruiser rammed Haines twice outside her Wangaratta office, left her in critical condition, officials said.
Police reported that the driver reversed to hit her a second time and was arrested. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese described the collision as a deliberate act. Experts and officials warned that the case reflects a growing wave of threats against Australian politicians.
