Police confirmed that Thomas Jackson, 30, who was allegedly stabbed in face and torso after coming to the aid of Mia Ayliffe-Chung at a hostel in Home Hill, north Queensland, died on Tuesday in Townsville, the Guardian reports.

His father, Les Jackson, said the family was bereft over the death of Jackson, from Congleton in Cheshire.

“Our darling Tom has left us and the world is a poorer place. Thanks again to everyone for the love and support you have given us over the last few days, we will be forever grateful,” he said.

“There is dark and evil in this world perpetrated by a few, but so much more love and light emanates from so many more. That thought will sustain us over the coming days.”

Smail Ayad, 29, will now face a second count of murder after he was charged over the death of Ayliffe-Chung last Friday.

Jackson, a freelance journalist, had been on life support since the attack.

Superintendent Ray Rohweder praised Jackson’s “selfless” courage during the tragedy.

“His subsequent actions were absolutely fantastic and I have no doubt that his actions on that day, as selfless, completely selfless as they were, led to the injuries that he now has.”