Independent federal MP Helen Haines remains in a critical condition after being struck by a 4WD in what has been alleged was a “deliberate act”.
A 43-year-old man is in custody and a task force involving Victoria Police, the Australian Federal Police and ASIO has been established. The Joint Terrorism Task Force has also been activated.
“This wasn’t an accident,” a shaken Anthony Albanese told ABC’s 7.30 just hours after Monday’s incident.
“This was a deliberate act, it would appear. We don’t know what the motivation is.”The incident has put a spotlight on the political debate in Australia and growing threats against politicians.
Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke said the investigation was still in its early stages, but said threats against politicians of all types was increasing.
“The year before last, we had 951 reports of harassing and threatening behaviour against various high-office holders. That … has gone to 1067,” Mr Burke said.
Update after Haines undergoes emergency surgery
Mr Albanese on Tuesday morning provided an update on Ms Haines’ condition after she underwent surgery overnight.
Ms Haines suffered severe lower leg injuries after she was struck by a white Landcruiser 4WD, which allegedly did a U-turn before driving at her.The MP was outside her electorate office on Murphy St, Wangaratta in northeastern Victoria when the incident happened about 3.35pm on Monday.
“Helen remains in hospital in a critical condition. I spoke with her husband Phil last night. She underwent surgery last night,” Mr Albanese told Sunrise on Tuesday morning.
“All of Australia’s thoughts are with her family, her many friends, her community.
“Helen Haines is someone of integrity; she’s greatly admired across the entire political spectrum.
“Someone who is so proud of representing that beautiful part of Victoria.
“This is a tragic situation. Our thoughts are with her this morning and today. We hope for a full recovery.”
In a statement on Monday night, Ms Haines’ family thanked those who helped her after the incident.
“We thank the swift assistance of bystanders and the dedicated health workers who assisted her, and police for their response,” the family said.
“Please keep Helen in your thoughts.”
Ms Haines was initially taken to Wangaratta Hospital before being flown to Melbourne’s Alfred Hospital where she underwent emergency surgery overnight.Police also thanked passers-by who intervened and performed a citizen’s arrest.
“This would have been a tragic, horrific incident for people to witness,” Acting Superintendent Ashley Mason said.
“For those that were nearby and those that were involved and assisted in detaining the male and then also provided any assistance to the injured female, I just thank them.
Man arrested at scene after Helen Haines hit
A 43-year-man from a nearby town of Tarrawingee was arrested at the scene and was being questioned by police.
A knife was located by police inside the vehicle.
Superintendent Mason said police were investigating whether the incident was “targeted”.
“We’ve still got a lot to work through here. As you can imagine, it’s been quite dynamic this afternoon. We’ve got quite an extensive crime scene.”
Superintendent Mason said investigators were still working to collect all available evidence to determine what had occurred.
The Major Collision Unit was also investigating.Taskforce established to investigate alleged attack
A taskforce in conjunction with Victoria Police, the AFP and ASIO has been established.
Mr Albanese said the AFP made that decision in partnership with VicPol, “based upon the fact that this was (allegedly) a deliberate act”.
“Now the motivation is not clear at this point in time, but it is clear that this wasn’t just an accident,” he told Sunrise.
“This was an (alleged) attempt to harm Helen Haines in Wangaratta, outside her electorate office.
“She was getting things from the boot of her car when this incident occurred.
“So the police will, no doubt, continue to interview the suspect in this case.”
Mr Albanese would not speculate on whether the arrested man was known to police.
“I will allow the authorities to do their work and they’ll make announcements based on facts,” the Prime Minister later told the Today show.“There is a lot of speculation at times like this and it is important they are allowed to do their work.”
More to come