Australian politician who was hit by car has lost both legs

Doctors have amputated both legs of Australian federal independent lawmaker Helen Haines after she was repeatedly hit by a Toyota Land Cruiser SUV in her hometown of Wangaratta on Monday, her husband said in Melbourne. Phil Haines told reporters Wednesday that Haines is alive and stable, with her left leg amputated on Monday and the right leg removed on Wednesday after doctors abandoned hope of saving it. Haines, 65, remains in critical condition and is receiving treatment at a Melbourne hospital following a helicopter transfer. Brendan Nugent, 43, was charged with intentionally causing serious injury, dangerous driving causing serious injury, and causing harm to a federal official. He made his first court appearance and remains in custody until February; police have not determined a motive.