Brendan Nugent, 43, appeared calm and detached during a brief court hearing in Wangaratta on Thursday, where he faced charges related to an incident that left independent MP Helen Haines critically injured. The hearing, held at the local art deco courthouse, lasted approximately five minutes and focused primarily on procedural matters.

Nugent, an environmental activist from the small community of Tarrawingee near Wangaratta, was charged with allegedly striking Dr. Haines with his 2.4-tonne Toyota LandCruiser on Murphy Street earlier this week. The incident occurred just a short distance from the courthouse. Dr. Haines suffered severe injuries in the collision, including the loss of a leg, and remains in critical condition at The Alfred hospital in Melbourne.

During the hearing, Nugent was escorted into the courtroom wearing black sandals, shorts, and a grey windcheater. He maintained a mostly subdued demeanor, occasionally nodding to Magistrate Allison Vaughan but not responding verbally. He appeared focused on a television monitor in the courtroom that broadcast the session to a variety of journalists attending remotely. Nugent was flanked by two custody officers and is expected to remain in custody pending further court proceedings or bail considerations.

Nugent’s defense lawyer, Chirag Patel, revealed that his client is suffering from a concussion and a rare neurological disorder known as idiopathic transverse myelitis, characterized by sudden spinal cord inflammation. It was also disclosed that Nugent faces additional charges related to cultivating and using cannabis. Although there is speculation concerning possible alcohol consumption prior to the incident, no charges connected to alcohol use have been filed.

The community around Murphy Street and Dr. Haines’s electoral office has responded with an outpouring of support, with floral tributes and symbolic items such as orange cockatoos—emblems of the MP—being placed near the site. Locals, including Cody Lepoidevin, who arrived quickly after the attack and helped restrain Nugent, described the incident as distressing. Lepoidevin noted Nugent appeared agitated during the event and was concerned about his belongings in the vehicle.

Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances leading up to the altercation. The case remains in its early stages, with further hearings anticipated as the legal process unfolds. Meanwhile, Dr. Haines is under intensive medical care, with supporters acknowledging the difficult recovery ahead.