Helen Haines, the Australian MP who was hit by a car in what authorities say was a deliberate attack, has lost both her legs, her husband has confirmed. Phil Haines said the"horrendous incident" caused his wife significant injuries but "her heart and her mind are in good shape". He added that the "good news in all this is that she's alive".
The alleged attacker, 43-year-old Brendan Nugent, faces multiple charges and appeared in court for the first time on Wednesday. Nugent was arrested moments after he allegedly drove his Toyota LandCruiser into the independent MP outside her electorate office in the regional town of Wangaratta, about 240km (150miles) northeast of Melbourne. Haines' "road to recovery will be long and difficult, but we know she is a fighter," her husband said at a press conference in Melbourne where she is being treated.
"She is a determined person who will do her best, with our support and love, to recover. And that is what we hope for." He thanked hospital staff and people, both in Australia and internationally, who have shown their concern for Haines, and urged those who want to show their support to donate to the Save the Children fund. "Please keep sending Helen your love," he added.
Earlier on Wednesday, Nugent appeared at the local court to face three charges: dangerous driving causing serious injury, intentionally causing serious injury, and causing harm to a Commonwealth public official. Police said more charges may be laid, including attempted murder. Nugent - a local from the nearby town of Tarrawingee and known as an environmental campaigner - remained silent and emotionless during his brief court appearance.
He did not apply for bail and is due back in court in February. Court documents show he was also charged with cultivating and possessing cannabis. In court, Nugent's lawyer said that his client had "mental health concerns" but did not give any further detail.
The court also heard that Nugent has a rare neurological condition - idiopathic transverse myelitis - caused by inflammation of the spinal cord. Victoria Police said its investigation, with support from the Australian Federal Police (AFP), remains ongoing and a motive is yet to be established. "His motivation for this - what we allege is a deliberate attack - is very much a centrepiece of the investigation," said Victoria Police Commissioner Mike Bush.
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