How Did MP Helen Haines End Up Critically Injured After Being Hit by a Car in Wangaratta?

Quick answer: Australian independent MP Helen Haines was taken to hospital with critical injuries after she was struck by a car outside her electorate office in Wangaratta, Victoria, on Monday afternoon, 19 October 2026. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese described the incident as a deliberate act, and counter-terrorism police are involved in the investigation.

Key facts

• What: Apparent deliberate vehicle attack on a sitting federal MP
• Who: Helen Haines, 65, Independent MP for the Indi division in Victoria
• Where: Outside her electorate office on Murphy Street, Wangaratta, north-east of Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
• When: About 15:35 local time (05:35 BST) on Monday 19 October 2026
• Toll: 1 critically injured (Haines); no deaths reported
• Source: BBC News, reporting Victoria Police and statements by the prime minister

What happened

Haines was hit near her office in Wangaratta. Police said she was struck outside an office on Murphy Street at about 15:35 local time.

Haines was struck by a white Toyota Landcruiser driven by a 43-year-old man from Tarrawingee. The suspect was arrested at the scene by a passer-by before being taken into custody by officers. A knife was also seized from inside the Toyota, police said. Victoria Police said it was unknown whether the suspect and Haines knew each other, and its investigation was continuing.

Haines was taken to hospital with critical injuries.

Who is Helen Haines?

Haines is a 65-year-old Independent MP for the Indi division in Victoria, in south-eastern Australia. She was first elected to the Australian House of Representatives in 2019.

Official reaction

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said counter-terrorism police are involved in the investigation. He described the incident as a deliberate act, saying it was "no accident". Speaking about Haines, he said: "My concern at this point in time is for one, one of my colleagues." He said the attack would come as an "incredible shock" to her community, and spoke of a "rise in temperature" in public debate.

Victoria's Premier, Ben Carroll, said he was "deeply appalled" by the "violent attack". Opposition leader Angus Taylor said: "This is a shocking day for our nation. No-one should be targeted in this way."

What happens next

The investigation is continuing, with counter-terrorism police involved. Police have not yet said whether the suspect and Haines knew each other. Further details are expected as police release more information.

Frequently asked questions

### Who was injured in the Wangaratta incident? Helen Haines, the 65-year-old Independent MP for Indi in Victoria, was taken to hospital with critical injuries after being hit by a car.

Where did the incident happen?

Outside her electorate office on Murphy Street in Wangaratta, north-east of Melbourne, at about 15:35 local time on Monday 19 October 2026.

Was anyone arrested?

Yes. A 43-year-old man from Tarrawingee was arrested at the scene by a passer-by before being taken into custody by officers. A knife was seized from inside the vehicle, police said.

Why is the incident being treated as deliberate?

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese described it as a deliberate act and said it was "no accident". Counter-terrorism police are involved in the investigation.