Australian MP Helen Haines improves after losing both legs

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 24 Oct, 04:14 · Archive

Independent MP Helen Haines's condition has improved to serious but stable after both legs were amputated following an alleged car attack.

Helen Haines, the Independent MP for the Victorian seat of Indi, had both legs amputated after being struck by a car near her electorate office in Wangaratta on Monday afternoon. Her condition has now improved from critical to serious but stable, according to an update from the Alfred Hospital in Melbourne on Saturday morning.

Brendan Nugent, 43, from Tarrawingee was arrested shortly after the incident. He has been charged with dangerous driving causing serious injury, intentionally causing serious injury, and causing harm to a Commonwealth public official. Police have also charged him with cultivating and possessing cannabis, and have indicated that further charges, including attempted murder, may be laid. Nugent appeared at Wangaratta magistrates court on Wednesday and did not apply for bail.

Haines's husband, Phil Haines, provided an update on Wednesday, saying 'both her heart and her mind are in good shape'. He described his wife as 'a very compassionate, caring, loving person' with 'the sharpest intellect'. Police said the investigation, supported by the Australian Federal Police, remains ongoing and a motive has not yet been established. Investigators are examining whether drug use or medication played a part in the incident. According to the BBC, Nugent's family has said they were long-time friends with Haines.

How it is being reported

• Australian MP's condition improves after alleged car attackThe Independent MP is now in a serious but stable condition, according to the Melbourne hospital.BBC News · 24 Oct, 02:55
• Helen Haines’s condition improves days after losing both legs from alleged attackIndependent MP now serious but stable, according to update from Melbourne’s Alfred hospital Get our breaking news email , free app or daily news podcast Independent MP Helen Haines’s condition has been downgraded to serious but stable after she lost both legs following an alleged attack near her electorate office in north-east Victoria on Monday afternoon. The Alfred hospital in Melbourne provided an update on Haines’s condition on Saturday morning. Continue reading...Guardian World · 24 Oct, 01:41

In this story: Helen Haines · Brendan Nugent · Phil Haines · Wangaratta · Victoria · Alfred Hospital · Victoria Police

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