Australian MP Helen Haines has lost both legs in a targeted attack, with the suspect appearing in court. The incident occurred outside her electoral office in Wangaratta, Victoria, where she was hit by a car.
Haines, an independent MP for the regional seat of Indi, was hit twice by the vehicle driven by Brendan Nugent, 43. Nugent, a local environmental campaigner, faces multiple charges including dangerous driving and causing harm to a public official.
Victoria Police are investigating the motive behind the attack, with no prior intelligence suggesting a threat to Haines. The suspect, who also faces charges of cannabis possession, is expected to return to court in February.
Nugent, who has a rare neurological condition, was not on police radar before the incident. Investigators are looking into potential drug use or personal connections that may have influenced the attack.