Helen Haines attack live updates: Brendan Nugent facing three charges over alleged ‘intentional’ attack; MP for Indi loses leg with surgeons trying to save other

Independent Australian lawmaker Helen Haines is in critical condition after being deliberately struck by a car in Wangaratta, a town northeast of Melbourne. The 65-year-old lawmaker, who has been advocating for transparency in politics and fighting corruption, underwent surgery overnight at the Alfred hospital in Melbourne. The attack occurred outside her office at around 3:35 pm on Monday, when the driver of a Toyota Land Cruiser deliberately targeted her as she was retrieving items from her car trunk.

The driver, named Brendan Nugent, was apprehended by local barber Ricky Jefferies, who has since been hailed as a hero. Nugent was found to have a knife in his vehicle. Police are investigating the incident, which Prime Minister Anthony Albanese called a test of the nation's character. Albanese expressed deep concern over the rise in threats and abuse against elected officials in recent years.

The incident has sparked widespread outrage and tributes from across the political spectrum, as Australia grapples with the unacceptable nature of such political violence.