Australian MP Helen Haines was deliberately hit by a car and is in critical condition

Australian MP Helen Haines is in critical condition after being deliberately hit by a car on Monday near her office in Wangaratta, Victoria, about 200 kilometres northeast of Melbourne. A 43-year-old suspect was arrested, and police announced that there is no longer any threat to the public.

Haines, 65, was taken to hospital after being struck by a car outside her office. Police are investigating the circumstances of the incident and are trying to establish the motive for the attack. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said it was too early to know the suspect’s motivation.

“All our thoughts are with Helen, her family, her friends, her team and her community,” Albanese said, expressing hope for the MP’s full recovery.

The incident took place in Wangaratta, a community northeast of Melbourne. Authorities responded quickly, detained the suspect and said the situation was under control. The investigation continues to clarify the attack and the circumstances in which it occurred.