Police Investigate Intent in Helen Haines Wangaratta Vehicle Incident

Independent MP Helen Haines, 65, was struck by a white Toyota LandCruiser outside her Murphy Street electorate office in Wangaratta about 3.35pm Monday and airlifted to Melbourne with critical injuries. A 43-year-old man from Tarrawingee was detained by a passerby and arrested; police seized a knife from the vehicle. Victoria police are investigating whether the act was intentional and whether the parties knew each other. The investigation involves the AFP, ASIO and the joint counter-terror taskforce. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese called Haines "fiercely intelligent" and "a thoroughly decent human being, full of integrity," and said: "It doesn't mean we always agree, but I always agree that her motives are good." He was first told it was a car accident before learning it was allegedly deliberate. Tony Burke said harassing and threatening behaviour reports against high office holders rose from 951 to 1,067. Haines's family said she is receiving medical care and asked for privacy. CONTESTED: Left-rated outlets predominantly frame it as an attack or alleged attack; right-rated outlets more often say hit by a car or an incident. Police have not confirmed intent.