// BBC WORLD NEWS — MONDO
Man charged with attack on Australian MP as suspect's father says she is family friend
The community in Wangaratta remains in shock after the alleged attack
A 43-year-old man has been charged after Australian MP Helen Haines was hit by a car in Victoria state on Monday.
The suspect will appear in court on Wednesday to face charges of dangerous driving causing serious injury, intentionally causing serious injury and the federal offence of causing harm to a public official.
Local media earlier named the alleged attacker as environmental activist Brendan Nugent. His father and his partner said they had been friends with Haines "for more than 20 years" and thanked residents and officers who helped her after the "shocking and horrific crime".
Haines remains in a critical condition after surgery and is reported to have lost one of her legs.
"Helen Haines is a deeply respected, valued and much loved member of our local community," Rod Nugent and his partner Christine Cunningham said in a statement.
"All of our love and all of our thoughts are with Helen and her family and friends."
They promised to assist Victoria Police "in any way we can".
Police say they will allege the incident was targeted.
Haines, 65, the independent member for Indi, is in a critical but stable condition after undergoing surgery at a Melbourne hospital.