‘This Wasn’t an Accident’: Australian PM Says After MP Helen Haines Was Deliberately Hit by Car, Left Critically Injured
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Summarized by AI; it may make mistakes. Check important info
Australian independent MP Helen Haines suffered critical injuries after being deliberately struck by a car outside her electorate office in Wangaratta, Victoria, on Monday. Police arrested the 43-year-old driver, who was detained by bystanders.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese described the incident as a deliberate attack, saying “This wasn’t an accident", as per ABC news.
Counter-Terrorism Squad Activated
Albanese said Australia's counter-terrorism squad had been activated following the incident. He expressed concern over the rising hostility directed at politicians in recent years.
“The temperature has increased in recent times,” Albanese said, pointing to abusive comments on social media that people might not make in face-to-face interactions.
Victoria Police Acting Superintendent Ashley Mason confirmed that the 65-year-old woman had suffered what had been described as critical injuries. He did not identify her, in line with police practice.
Family Thanks Bystanders and Medical Staff
Haines's family said she was receiving medical care following the incident outside her Wangaratta electorate office. They thanked bystanders who intervened, healthcare workers who assisted her and police for their response.
The family and her staff declined to make further comments, requesting privacy from the public and media.
Haines Known for Anti-Corruption Efforts
Haines entered Australia's parliament in 2019 after working as a nurse and midwife. She has advocated stronger climate action and greater transparency in politics, including measures to tackle corruption.
Albanese praised her as a hardworking and intelligent lawmaker, describing her as “a thoroughly decent human being”, and expressed hope for her full recovery.
