Speaking to reporters, the Independent MP’s husband, Phil Haines, confirmed that her second leg had to be amputated after she was rammed by a car outside her office.
Australian lawmaker Helen Haines has lost both her legs after she was critically injured in a “targeted” attack earlier this week.
What we know about the suspect
“But the good news in all this is that Helen is alive, and she’s stable. That is the most important thing for our family. The two most important parts of Helen for us as a family are her heart and her mind,” he added. As Nugent appeared at a courthouse for the crime, a report by The Guardian Australia has claimed that the suspect was a family friend of Haines. However, Victoria state police have stated they could not find any direct past contact between Haines and the accused, as they work to establish a motive for the attack on Haines.
Police have charged 43-year-old Brendan Nugent with dangerous driving causing serious injury and intentionally causing serious injury, as well as the federal crime of harming a public official, which carries a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison.
“What happened to her yesterday is devastating and unfathomable,” they said, adding that they will fully cooperate with Victoria Police in the matter. “Helen Haines is a deeply respected, valued and much-loved member of our local community,” The Guardian Australia further quoted the family as saying.
The suspect, identified as 43-year-old Brendan Nugent, has been arrested in the case.
As the investigation continues, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has also termed the attack “deliberate”.
