Australian MP seriously hurt in suspected car attack

Australian police are investigating a suspected car attack that has left independent MP Helen Haines with critical injuries.

Counterterrorism investigators have joined the probe following the incident, which occurred outside Haines' constituency office in Wangaratta, northeast of the Victorian capital, Melbourne.

What do we know about the suspected attack on Haines?

Haines, 65, was hit by an SUV, said by police to be a white Toyota, outside her office, leaving her with serious injuries, particularly to her lower body.

The driver, described as a 43-year-old man, has been arrested, according to Prime Minister Anthony Albanese.

Investigators are reported to have found a knife in the car.

Apparently deliberate attack: PM Albanese

 "This wasn't an accident. There was a deliberate act, it would appear," Albanese told broadcaster ABC. He said it was too early to speculate about the possible motive behind the attack.

At a separate press conference, Albanese said everyone was "praying for her full recovery."   

Although it has not yet been established whether the incident was deliberate, there has been an increase in threats and harassment targeting lawmakers and other senior public officials in Australia and elsewhere in recent years.  

Edited by: Karl Sexton

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