Home / Crime and Justice / Hero Barber Foils Attack on MP Helen Haines
Hero Barber Foils Attack on MP Helen Haines
20 Oct
Summary
- Barber Ricky Jefferies detained a man who allegedly hit MP Helen Haines with a car.
- Jefferies disarmed the alleged attacker and held him until police arrived.
- The incident, involving counterterrorism authorities, has raised concerns about political violence.
In Wangaratta, Australia, a barber named Ricky Jefferies is being lauded as a hero for his decisive actions during an alleged attack on local Member of Parliament Helen Haines. Jefferies reportedly ran from his shop after hearing a loud noise and witnessed a car striking Haines.
He intervened by disarming the alleged driver, who was carrying a knife, and then restrained the individual until police arrived. Haines, 65, was critically injured and required airlift to a hospital for surgery.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese praised Jefferies' bravery, calling him a "Good Samaritan" and a hero. The investigation into the incident, which is being handled by multiple agencies including counterterrorism authorities, is ongoing. The motive remains unclear, but the involvement of counterterrorism units has sparked concern about possible political violence, an infrequent occurrence in Australia.
