A British man who tried to save a woman from a stabbing attack at an Australian backpacker's hostel last week has died in hospital.
Stabbing victims Mia Ayliffe-Chung (left) and Tom Jackson Photo: Supplied
Tom Jackson, 30, was stabbed in the eye, head and torso when he came to the aid of Mia Ayliffe-Chung at the Home Hill hostel, south of Townsville in North Queensland, last Tuesday night, the ABC reported.
He sought to shield Ms Ayliffe-Chung in the bathroom but was injured himself.
Ms Ayliffe-Chung, 21, died that night and Mr Jackson was taken to the Townsville Hospital in a critical condition.
His life support was turned off this afternoon.
Smail Ayad, 29, a backpacker from France, has been charged with murder and attempted murder.
Queensland police said they would upgrade the charges against Mr Ayad in his next appearance at Townsville Magistrates Court on 28 October.
Mr Jackson's father Les flew into Townsville late last week to be by his son's side.
In a statement released to a fundraising page set up in Mr Jackson's honour, Les Jackson wrote about his grief.
"We are bereft," he said on the page.
"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.
"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."
After flying into Australia, Les Jackson praised his son's bravery, adding how proud they were.
"There are many and varied reasons why we are, and always will be, immensely proud of Tom," he said.
"His actions in response to this horrific attack only add to that sense of pride."
Menna Rawlings, the British High Commissioner to Australia, tweeted her support to Mr Jackson's family and friends.
"Sorry to hear this very sad news. Our thoughts and deepest condolences are with Tom's family and friends."
Ms Rawlings visited the region following the attack last week.
- ABC
