Australian lawmaker has both legs amputated after allegedly deliberate attack by car rammer
By Hilary Whiteman, CNN
Brisbane, Australia (CNN) — The Australian lawmaker hit by a car in an allegedly deliberate attack has now had both her legs amputated, her husband announced Wednesday.
Helen Haines, an independent federal MP, remains in a stable condition in hospital after Monday’s incident, which unfolded mid-afternoon on a main road outside her electorate office in Wangaratta, northeastern Victoria.
“Helen’s left leg was amputated on Monday. We had been hoping that her right leg would be saved, but… the surgeons had to also remove her right leg,” Phil Haines, the MP’s husband of nearly 40 years, told a press conference at The Alfred hospital in Melbourne.
“Both her heart and her mind are in good shape,” he added.
A 43-year-old man, Brendan Nugent, faced court on Wednesday charged with dangerous driving causing serious injury, intentionally causing serious injury and causing harm to a Commonwealth public official.
The alleged attack shocked the country, and – while Victoria Police say they’re still investigating the alleged motive – shone a spotlight on the safety of political leaders.
Members of parliament received in-depth security briefings in Canberra on Wednesday as the country’s federal police authorities pointed to rising reports of harassment and threats.
Victoria Police Commissioner Mike Bush said police had no intelligence on Haines’ alleged attacker that pointed to an imminent risk.
In a very short court hearing on Wednesday morning, Nugent’s lawyer said he had a rare neurological condition – and was currently unmedicated.
No application for bail was made, and the next hearing is scheduled for February 4.
This is a developing story. Updates to come.
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