Man in Custody Over Brutal Attack on Independent MP Helen Haines

A 43-year-old man, identified as Brendan Nugent, has been taken into custody following an attack on independent MP Helen Haines. Nugent has been in custody since his arrest yesterday afternoon and was questioned by detectives this morning.

Acting Superintendent Ashley Mason said: "They are ascertaining exactly what occurred, how and why".

A person with close knowledge of the investigation revealed that Nugent was known to police. It is understood he has undergone a mental health assessment.

Ms Haines, 65, who has represented the people of Indi since 2019, suffered critical injuries and remains in hospital in Melbourne. She was retrieving items from the boot of her vehicle at the time of the alleged attack.

Victoria Police are working to establish the motivation for the attack, including whether it was politically motivated.