Independent Victorian member of parliament Helen Haines was critically injured in a vehicle‑related attack in Mansfield, Victoria, on Monday. The incident occurred after she had opened a new dog park in the northern electorate and was later seen unpacking a car outside her office at 3:35 pm.
According to police reports, a man known to authorities performed a U‑turn when he saw Haines and struck her with his vehicle. The collision left the MP critically wounded, prompting an immediate emergency response.
Haines’ colleagues and other politicians have condemned the assault, describing it as a serious threat to the safety of public representatives. The incident follows a broader trend of increasing threats and abuse directed at Australian politicians.
Officials say the attacker is being identified and investigated, but details of the motive remain unclear. The incident has raised concerns about the growing hostility faced by elected officials across the country.
<small>Source: The Guardian — read the original story there.</small>
