A man accused of attacking Victorian MP Helen Haynes has appeared in Wangaratta Magistrates’ Court, facing five charges, as police consider whether to pursue an attempted murder charge and continue investigating the incident.
Brendan Nugent made a brief court appearance after police brought him to the courthouse at about 9am. He did not apply for bail, and the court scheduled his next appearance for February.
Nugent initially faced three charges laid by police on the previous evening: dangerous driving causing serious injury, intentionally causing serious injury, and a Commonwealth offence of causing harm to a Commonwealth official.
The court also heard two additional charges relating to the cultivation and possession of cannabis. Police laid those charges following an operation at the property where Nugent lived alone in Terowindi, about 12 kilometres from Wangaratta along the Great Ocean Road.
During the hearing, Nugent’s lawyer told the court that his client had a rare neurological condition, had suffered a concussion and had some mental health concerns. The lawyer also said this was Nugent’s first time in custody.
Court records also showed that authorities had issued a personal safety intervention order against Nugent in 2022. Although police charged him with breaching the order, the court later dismissed that case.
Police Have Not Ruled Out Attempted Murder Charge
Victoria Police Chief Commissioner Mike Bush said investigators were considering all serious charges, including attempted murder, but stressed that police needed sufficient evidence to support any additional charges.
Asked whether investigators were considering an attempted murder charge, Bush said it remained a possibility.
“That’s always a consideration. Of course, we have to locate and follow the evidence, but this is a very serious and tragic incident, and we will be looking at all serious charges,” he said.
He added that investigators would need evidence to support any charges they pursued.
Community Mourns Helen Haynes as Police Increase Presence
Meanwhile, Wangaratta residents continued to leave flowers and messages of support outside Helen Haynes’ office, near the courthouse.
Residents expressed shock and horror over the alleged attack, with many struggling to understand why someone would target the highly regarded local MP.
Police have also increased their visible presence across the town in an effort to reassure residents following the incident. Officers in high-visibility uniforms have become more noticeable on local streets.
The atmosphere remained tense as residents continued to express their support for Haynes and their concern over the alleged attack.
Police say their investigation remains ongoing, and further serious charges may follow as investigators assess the available evidence.
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