New details emerge about the stabbing that cost paramedic Steven Tougher his life

Australia has been left heartbroken by death of paramedic Steven Tougher as horrendous new information is emerging about the stabbing.

The family of a paramedic who was allegedly stabbed to death at a Sydney McDonald’s has issued a statement, as sad new details of the incident come to light and the alleged killer is pictured.

Steven Tougher, 29, lost his life at 5.30am on Friday in Sydney’s Campbelltown, he was sitting in the back of his ambulance taking a meal break after a night shift.

Police allege Jordan Fineanganofo stabbed Mr Tougher in an “unprovoked” and “horrific” attack. Mr Tougher was rushed to hospital but sadly could not be saved.

Mr Tougher has left behind his wife, young child and a heartbroken community.

Fineanganofo, 21, was tasered and arrested at the scene of the crime and is now being charged with Mr Tougher’s murder.

It is now being reported in The Daily Telegraph that Fineanganofo was diagnosed with psychosis in 2021 but has never taken medication for the condition.

Court documents seen by the publication allege Fineanganofo stabbed Tougher 50 times after “stalking him” in a Campbelltown car park.

According to the police statement of facts, Fineanganofo pulled up next to Mr Tougher’s NSW Ambulance vehicle, “stalked him” for 30 seconds before stabbing him in a “frenzied attack”.

The young man’s lawyer Javid Faiz showed up to Parramatta Bail Court on Saturday without his client but revealed that Fineanganofo would not be applying for bail.

Jordan Fineanganofo, charged with the murder of Sydney Ambulance paramedic Steven Tougher outside a McDonalds restaurant in Campbelltown on the 04 April 2023.

NSW Ambulance officer Steven Tougher tragically died. Source: Image supplied by family.

Outside court, Mr Faiz told reporters that Mr Fineanganofo was undergoing a mental health assessment.

Mr Faiz said his client suffered from mental health issues and was in hospital under police guard.

“I’ve explained the offences and he is fully aware of the gravity,” Mr Faiz said.

Tougher’s death has left the local community in mourning.

Mr Tougher’s parents Jillian and Jeff, his sister Jess and his wife Madison have released a lengthy and heartbreaking statement to pay tribute to the essential worker and family man.

“Steven’s dedication to helping others shone brightest during his work as a NSW Ambulance paramedic and previously as a nurse.

“But it wasn’t just his medical expertise that made him exceptional – Steven’s compassion touched the lives of so many people.

“He had a way of calming fears, offering words of solace, and showing kindness in the midst of chaotic or traumatic events.

“Steven had an uncanny ability to connect with people, to truly understand their needs, and to provide care with genuine warmth and empathy.

“He was always ready with a smile, a kind word, or a lending hand and brought joy to those around him.

“While we are still grieving our much-loved husband, father, son, and brother, we are thankful for all the love and support we’ve received from his NSW Ambulance colleagues, his closest friends and family, the greater NSW Health family, NSW Police, and members of the community.

“As we are still coming to terms with our loss, our family requests privacy at this time,” the family said.

NSW Ambulance officer Steven Tougher (C) with wife Madison (2-R), his parents, Jillian (2-L) and Jeff (R), and sister, Jess (L). Steven was stabbed to death in the carpark of a McDonald's Campbelltown on the 14th April 2023. Source: supplied by family

On Saturday, there was an outpouring of emotion at the scene where Mr Tougher was killed.

Dozens of flowers and cards were laid at the scene by wellwishers and people affected by the tragedy.

One letter, left by a distraught former paramedic said: “I pray for his young family, extended family, colleagues and his friends.

“I am absolutely devastated, angry and heartbroken for my fellow paramedic brother.”

Paramedics from across the state paid tribute to the young man killed while doing his job.

One note attached to a large bunch of flowers read: “From your colleagues at Mudgee Ambulance Station”.

Members of the community arrive to lay a floral tribute where paramedic Steven Tougher was killed on Friday. Picture: NCA NewsWire / Jeremy Piper

A GoFundMe campaign has already raised more than $300,000 for his young family. Mr tougher’s wife Madison is currently pregnant with their second child.

Tributes have flowed throughout Australia for the paramedic killed while doing his job.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese paid tribute to Mr Tougher on Twitter on Friday, calling his death “as shocking as it is tragic.”