Independent MP struck by vehicle outside electoral office in Victoria

A car struck Australian MP Helen Haines outside her office in Wangaratta, Victoria, on 20 October 2026. Haines, who represents the electorate of Indi, was near her vehicle when a white Toyota Land Cruiser hit her. The driver reversed and hit her a second time. A local barber stopped the driver before police arrived. Haines lost one leg and surgeons worked to save the other. She was in critical but stable condition after overnight surgery. Police arrested the driver, Brendan Nugent, 43. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said the attack appeared to be deliberate. Authorities activated the Joint Terrorism Task Force to investigate. Online records suggested the suspect had previously contacted Haines about climate issues.