Medical personnel confirmed that Haines lost one of her legs in the incident, and surgeons worked through the night in an effort to save her other leg. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese stated that the incident was a deliberate act rather than an accident, noting that the driver performed a U-turn after passing Haines while she was handling items at the boot of her car.
Investigation and Official Response
A 43-year-old man from Tarrawingee has been taken into custody in connection with the incident. The investigation is currently being led by a joint counter-terrorism taskforce, which includes the Australian Federal Police and Asio.
Victoria Police stated that there is no indication the parties were known to each other and assured the public that the event is being treated as an isolated incident with no ongoing threat to the broader community. Politicians across the political spectrum, including independent Senator Jacqui Lambie, have expressed shock and condemnation over the attack while offering support to Haines' family and staff.