Alleged attacker of MP Helen Haines faced police in 2022, telling officers to 'shoot me'

Footage has emerged showing the man accused of driving into Independent MP Dr. Helen Haines telling police they would have to shoot him during a confrontation in 2022, four years prior to the alleged attack on the MP.

The video, obtained by Nine, depicts Brendan Nugent, then 39, holding a garden stake as officers confronted him. In the footage, Nugent can be heard saying, "you're going to have to shoot me," and "you're going to have to kill me." Police subsequently deployed capsicum spray and used a Taser on Nugent, who was not charged over the incident.

Nugent, now 43, is accused of driving a Toyota LandCruiser into Dr. Haines outside her electorate office in Wangaratta, northern Victoria, on Monday, October 19. Dr. Haines, 65, sustained critical injuries and underwent emergency surgery in Melbourne, losing both her legs as a result of the incident. On Saturday, her condition improved from 'critical' to 'serious but stable'.

Nugent, who reportedly lived alone on a remote property, appeared in court on Wednesday and was charged with offenses including dangerous driving causing serious harm. His lawyer indicated concerns for Nugent's psychological wellbeing and requested an assessment. Nugent did not apply for bail and was remanded in custody until February.

Victoria Police Commissioner Mike Bush confirmed that investigators are examining the possibility that Nugent's alleged actions against Haines may be related to grievances involving his family.

Dr. Haines' office has remained closed since the incident but is preparing to reopen. Her staff expressed gratitude for the support received and acknowledged the profound impact of the event on family and staff, some of whom were first responders to the scene. Electorate offices in Wangaratta and Wodonga are expected to reopen on Thursday, with staff prioritizing their own recovery and mutual support.