Australian independent federal lawmaker Helen Haines, 65, is in critical condition after being struck by a vehicle on Monday. The incident occurred mid-afternoon outside her electoral district office in the city of Wangaratta in Victoria state.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and police described the incident as a deliberate act and an apparent attack. Haines was struck by a Toyota Land Cruiser SUV. In response to the event, the country’s counterterrorism team was activated.
A 43-year-old male driver was detained by civilians at the scene before being arrested by police. During the investigation, officers discovered a knife inside the vehicle. The suspect will be interviewed in relation to the incident.