The family of a paramedic who was allegedly stabbed to death at a Sydney McDonald's said he "touched the lives of so many people".
Steven Tougher, 29, married the love of his life last month and his second baby is due in just a few weeks.
On Saturday afternoon, his wife, parents and sister issued a statement on behalf of the entire family, saying the young paramedic's compassion was "exceptional".
READ MORE: 'Reunited in heaven': Father of missing Beaumont children dies at 97
"Steven's dedication to helping others shone brightest during his work as a NSW Ambulance paramedic and previously as a nurse," the family said.
"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."
READ MORE: Shortage of common antibiotic spurs TGA to change rules for winter
"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"
The young father was allegedly stabbed to death while on a break with his colleagues on Friday morning.
A 21-year-old man faced court today charged with murder.
Currently about 40 bunches of flowers have been placed at the McDonald's in Campbelltown after the alleged stabbing occurred about 5.30am.
Among the items is a NSW Ambulance hat and a stethoscope.
A retired paramedic also left a letter that said "prayer to you, brother. Your shift has ended. Rest in peace".
READ MORE: Man who allegedly drove into service station owner charged in Toowoomba
NSW Health Minister Ryan Park told Today said the pain and suffering his family was going through was something no one could "pretend to imagine".
"A gentleman who was doing his job, serving his community, a gentleman who loved the paramedics, he loved his family, he was due to be a dad again in just a few months' time and it's absolutely heartbreaking," Park said.
"There are recommendations to keep our paramedics safer, we'll make sure they are carried through and implemented.
He said there is an ongoing trial of body-worn cameras for paramedics.
READ MORE: France's constitutional council approves plan to raise retirement age to 64
"We will make sure that every available support and resource is wrapped around his colleagues and is wrapped around his family and loved ones as they go through what is a very, very difficult time."
Tougher was having a break when a 21-year-old man allegedly approached him with a knife and stabbed him repeatedly in the stomach.
His colleague was able to raise the alarm and police were there within minutes but Tougher died in hospital.
Sign up here to receive our daily newsletters and breaking news alerts, sent straight to your inbox.