Australian Lawmaker Helen Haines Critically Hurt in Car Strike
Australian independent lawmaker Helen Haines was hit by a car. The incident happened outside her office in Wangaratta, Australia.
She is 65 years old. Police and Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said she was in critical condition.
They said this on Monday. Police said she was deliberately struck.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese called it an apparent attack. Reports say she was hit while loading her car.
A 43-year-old driver was held by bystanders. Police then arrested him.
Police found a knife in his car. Australia's counterterrorism team was activated after the strike.
Sources say a joint team is now investigating. The suspect's motive had not been established. She has represented the regional seat of Indi since 2019.
Klear Note — Counterterrorism teams investigate terrorism-related threats; their involvement alone does not prove terrorism.
Key Terms 2
- counterterrorism Police work that focuses on stopping and investigating terror attacks.
- seat A voting area that elects one lawmaker to represent it.