
Australian MP Helen Haines has lost both her legs after being hit by a vehicle outside her office in the city of Wangaratta.
Police are investigating the incident as a possible deliberate attack, while the person accused of the collision has appeared in court for the first time.
The news about the MP's condition was announced by her husband, Phil Haines, who stated that she has suffered very serious injuries, but remains determined to recover.
Speaking at a press conference in Melbourne, where his wife is receiving medical treatment, he described the incident as horrific and stressed that the family hopes for an improvement in her condition.
"The road to recovery will be long and difficult, but we know she is a fighter," said Phil Haines, adding that the MP will have the support and love of her family throughout the rehabilitation process.
43-year-old Brendan Nugent, suspected of deliberately hitting the deputy with his vehicle, appeared before a local court on Wednesday.
According to authorities, he was arrested shortly after the incident, which took place outside Helen Haines' political office in Wangaratta.
Nugent faces three charges, including dangerous driving causing serious injury, intentionally causing serious bodily harm and causing harm to a federal public official.