Federal independent MP Helen Haines is fighting for life after being hit by a car in what’s been described as a deliberate attack outside her regional Victoria electorate office.
The 43-year-old driver of a white Toyota Landcruiser was detained by bystanders and arrested on the main street of Wangaratta after the “tragic, horrific incident” about 3.35pm on Monday. Police said they seized a knife from the vehicle.
#BREAKING: Federal MP Helen Haines has been struck by a car outside her electoral office in Wangaratta.
#9News understands the Member for Indi has lost her leg in the incident, in what is believed to be a possible targeted attack.
More to come. https://t.co/sexS4tOK5A
— 9News Melbourne (@9NewsMelb) October 19, 2026
Motive?
This is White liberal woman Helen Haines, an Australian Member of Parliament. She has repeatedly called for more cultural diversity in Australia, saying “we need to welcome people of all faiths and corners of the world.” She has supported efforts to resettle Afghans and Palestinians across Rural Australia.
Today she was run over outside her office by a 43-year-old man in a Toyota Land Cruiser. He had a knife on him and the incident is being treated as a terrorist attack. Police are not sharing the suspect’s name.
She is currently in the ICU fighting for her life.
— Bad Hombre (@Badhombre) October 19, 2026
