Independent MP Helen Haines critically injured in vehicle attack outside office

Independent MP Helen Haines was critically injured in an incident involving a vehicle outside her electorate office in Wangaratta, regional Victoria, according to The Guardian.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said a man was arrested at the scene after allegedly striking Haines with a Toyota LandCruiser. Counter-terrorism police and federal agencies are investigating the incident, as reported by ABC News and The Guardian.

The Prime Minister expressed his support for Haines, describing her as a respected and well-loved member of the community, and noted that the motive for the attack is not yet known.

Haines' family released a statement thanking bystanders, health workers, and police for their swift assistance following the incident, as noted by The Guardian.

Authorities have not indicated any recent direct threats to Haines, but officials including the Prime Minister and the home affairs minister have acknowledged an increase in threats and political tensions recently, according to The Guardian.

The investigation is ongoing, with federal police, ASIO, and the joint counter-terrorism taskforce involved in the case.