An Australian independent MP has undergone the amputation of both legs following a car incident outside her constituency office. Dr. Helen Haines, 65, was struck on Monday by a Toyota Land Cruiser while retrieving items from her vehicle’s boot in Wangaratta, Victoria. She was airlifted to a hospital where surgeons were unable to save her legs, her husband Phil Haines confirmed.

Dr. Haines, a mother of three, remains in a stable condition. Her husband described her as a determined individual who is expected to focus on recovery with the support of her family and loved ones.

A family friend, Brendan Nugent, 43, has been charged in connection with the incident. He appeared before Wangaratta magistrates on allegations including dangerous driving causing serious injury, intentionally causing serious injury, causing harm to a Commonwealth public official, and cultivating and possessing cannabis. Nugent was remanded in custody and is due to stand trial next year.

During the court proceedings, it was noted that Nugent has a history of mental health issues. The circumstances surrounding the incident remain under investigation.