Australian lawmaker Helen Haines loses both legs after alleged deliberate car ramming

Australian lawmaker Helen Haines has reportedly lost both legs after she was allegedly deliberately struck by a car outside her electorate office in Victoria.

The 65-year-old independent MP was struck by a vehicle outside her electoral office in Wangaratta, northeastern Victoria, on Monday, October 19, 2026. The incident is being investigated as a targeted attack.

Her husband, Phil Haines, confirmed on Wednesday that doctors amputated her left leg on Monday and later removed her right leg after efforts to save it proved unsuccessful.

He said Haines was alive and in a stable condition, although she remains in critical condition in hospital. He also thanked medical personnel and others who had supported the family following the incident.

A 43-year-old man, Brendan Nugent, has been charged over the incident. He appeared in court on Wednesday, facing charges including dangerous driving causing serious injury, intentionally causing serious injury and causing harm to a Commonwealth public official.

Police are continuing their investigation into the circumstances surrounding the alleged attack.