Australian politician struck by vehicle – seriously injured 

Sofia Hedberg

Published 10:36 | Updated 11:57
 

Australian politician Helen Haines has been seriously injured after being struck by a vehicle outside her office.

"This was no accident," says Prime Minister Anthony Albanese.

The 65-year-old independent Member of Parliament was outside her office in Wangaratta—located three hours northeast of Melbourne—when she was struck by a car on Monday.

Haines is seriously injured and remains in critical condition, according to the police.

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese stated at a press conference that his thoughts are with Helen and her loved ones, the BBC reports.

"We are praying for her full recovery," he said.

Man arrested

A man in his 40s has been arrested, after a bystander managed to detain him as he stepped out of the vehicle.

"It is reported that a white Toyota LandCruiser struck the 65-year-old woman outside an office on Murphy Street at approximately 3:35 p.m. local time," the police stated.

Police also seized a knife found inside the vehicle.

"It is not yet known whether the parties are acquainted with one another," the police wrote.