Indi MP taken to hospital after shocking incident near North East office

Police cars parked near the scene where Dr Haines was struck a Toyota Landcruiser. Picture by Blair Thomson

Police are investigating a car crash that saw Indi MP Helen Haines struck near her Wangaratta office.

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The office of the independent federal politician confirmed she was involved in an alarming incident in a statement released just before 7pm on Monday, October 19.

"This afternoon, our beloved Helen was involved in an incident outside her Wangaratta electorate office, and is receiving medical care," the statement said.

"We thank the swift assistance of bystanders and the dedicated health workers who assisted her, and police for their response."

It is believed the federal politician was unloading material from the boot of her Subaru station wagon close to her Murphy Street office when she was struck by a four-wheel-drive sometime before 4pm on Monday, October 19.

The independent MP was described as suffering lower body injuries and was taken by ambulance to hospital in a critical condition.

Police in a statement said Dr Haines was struck by a white Toyota Landcruiser drive by a man at about 3.35pm.

As he exited the vehicle, the man, a 43 year-old from Tarrawingee, was arrested at the scene by a passerby.

A knife was found by police and seized from inside the Toyota.

Police are investigating whether the incident was an intentional act.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said the joint counter terrorism unit was involved in the investigation.

"I've spoken with Victorian Premier Ben Carroll, and have been briefed by AFP Commissioner Krissy Barrett," Mr Albanese said.

"It is too early in this investigation for me to provide you with details of what the motivation is behind this attack."

Mr Albanese said he was not aware of any personal threats to Dr Haines.

Her orange Subaru, featuring her details on the driver's door, was surrounded by police tape at the scene.

Police said Dr Haines was taken to Wangaratta hospital and was expected to be flown to Melbourne for further treatment.

"Like a lot of people across Indi right now our thoughts are with Helen and her loved ones and we're anxiously awaiting an update on her condition," Dr McKeeman said.

Albury MP Justin Clancy expressed his concern in a Facebook post.

"My thoughts are with Helen Haines, her family and her team following deeply concerning reports of an incident in Wangaratta," Mr Clancy wrote.

Helen Haines speaks on Saturday at the launch of independent Lachie McKeeman's campaign for the Victorian state seat of Benambra, which was held at Baranduda. Picture from Facebook

"Helen is a dedicated representative of her community, and I know many people across our border region will share my concern for her wellbeing.

"At this time, our thoughts are with Helen and those close to her, and we sincerely hope she is safe and receiving the care and support she needs.

"Like a lot of people across Indi right now our thoughts are with Helen and her loved ones and we're anxiously awaiting an update on her condition."

Dr Haines, who lives at Wangaratta, has been the member for Indi since the 2019 election and also won two further terms in 2022, 2025.

The 65 year-old is married and has three adult children.

Following confirmation of the incident, Dr Haines office stated "our family, and Helen's staff, will be making no further comment at this time, and ask that their privacy be respected by the public and media".

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