New documents show New South Wales Police allege slain paramedic Steven Tougher was “stalked” by his attacker before being stabbed 50 times in a Campbelltown car park on Friday.
A police statement of facts alleges 21-year-old Jordan Fineanganofo stabbed the 29-year-old paramedic in an “unprovoked” and “horrific” attack outside a McDonald’s at about 5am, according to The Daily Telegraph.
Fineanganofo allegedly pulled up next to Mr Tougher’s NSW Ambulance vehicle, “stalked him” for 30 seconds and then stabbed him in a “frenzied attack”.
The pair were wedged between Mr Fineanganofo’s car and the ambulance whilst the attack took place, the document says, with the 21-year-old standing over Mr Tougher as he carried out the stabbing.
Police allege the paramedic was “completely defenceless.”
They added that onlookers attempted to intervene both by reasoning with Fineanganofo and later by kicking him, but none were successful in stopping the attack.
Fineanganofo was tased at the scene and arrested by police before being taken to hospital for psychiatric care. He was charged with murder on Friday night.
The document shows authorities requested the 21-year-old be denied bail, saying he was a “serious risk to society.”
Court documents also seen by The Daily Telegraph revealed Fineanganofo had been diagnosed with psychosis in 2021, but had never been medicated for the condition.
His case was mentioned in Parramatta Bail Court on Saturday morning, although he did not appear before a magistrate.
Fineanganofo’s lawyer, Javid Faiz, told the court his client was not applying to be released.
Speaking to press outside court, Mr Faiz said that Fineanganofo understood the seriousness of the crime he was charged with.
“I’ve explained the offences and he is fully aware of the gravity,” Mr Faiz said.
“Police are currently at his bedside due to his mental health issues.
“We will allow the matter to take its natural course.”
The tragic death has sent shockwaves through NSW’s health community.
Health Minister Ryan Park said the ambulance service was providing assistance to Mr Tougher’s family, colleagues, and the wider health network after what he called a “terrible incident.”
“Every available resource, whether it’s in terms of counselling and support, financial assistance [will be provided] to allow the family some form of recovery,” he said.
“They are going through what is unimaginable pain right now.”
Mr Tougher’s parents, sister and wife released a heart-breaking statement, mourning the loss of their loved one.
“Steven’s compassion touched the lives of so many people,” they said.
“He had a way of calming fears, offering words of solace, and showing kindness in the midst of chaotic or traumatic events.
“He was always ready with a smile, a kind word, or a lending hand and brought joy to those around him.
“As we are still coming to terms with our loss, our family requests privacy at this time.”
Source: skynews.com.au
