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Driver charged over 'targeted' car attack on Australian lawmaker Helen Haines

Driver charged over 'targeted' car attack on Australian lawmaker Helen Haines

Summary

Australian police charged a man for intentionally hitting lawmaker Helen Haines with a car outside her office, leaving her critically injured. The driver, Brendan Nugent, was also found with a knife and faces several charges including harming a public official.

Key Facts

  • Helen Haines was struck by a Toyota Land Cruiser near her office in Wangaratta, Australia.
  • The attack occurred on Monday afternoon and was described by police as deliberate.
  • Haines is in critical condition and has undergone surgery, including the loss of a leg.
  • Brendan Nugent, 43, was arrested at the scene and is charged with dangerous driving causing serious injury, intentional injury, and harming a public official.
  • A local barber, Ricky Jefferies, helped restrain the attacker until police arrived.
  • Political violence is rare in Australia but threats to officials have increased recently.
  • Prime Minister Anthony Albanese expressed support for Haines and called the attack a serious test for the country.
  • The motive behind the attack remains unknown, and investigations by federal and state police continue.
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