A mother-to-be was heartbroken to learn she was expecting her first child just hours before the father was fatally injured in a targeted attack.

Taylor Higginson discovered her pregnancy the evening before 21-year-old Ben Saxby was gravely injured in Rotherham, South Yorkshire, on September 8.

Mr Saxby was placed in an induced coma following the daytime attack and eventually succumbed to his injuries on Saturday, 19 days later.

In a series of emotional social media posts, Ms. Higginson shared how Mr. Saxby had “always dreamed of being a daddy” and was thrilled with the news of their baby.

A touching photograph taken in the hospital showed Mr. Saxby’s hand, attached to a drip, holding a positive pregnancy test next to their first baby scan.

Ms Higginson wrote on Facebook following his death: ‘We’ve both died today but only ones heart stopped.

‘Please wait for me my love. Be patient. 

‘Everyday is a countdown until we held each other again. I’ll be with you in every lifetime.’

She told friends in another post: ‘My beautiful Ben fell to sleep for the final time at 14.02 this afternoon.

‘Your beautiful eyes and bright smile will forever be with me.

‘I promise I’ll devote my life to you and make you proud.

‘Sleep tight, daddy. Mummy will tell me all about you.’

The sad events transpired after two Audi vehicles crashed into the gates of a property in the North Anston area of Rotherham shortly after 10.15am on September 8.

A violent fight subsequently broke out between a group of men, leaving Mr Saxby critically injured.

An online fundraising appeal to help Ms Higginson read: ‘Taylor recently found out she is expecting baby Saxby.

‘Alongside her grief, she now faces the overwhelming challenges of preparing for life as a single mother.

“We are updating this fundraiser to help support Taylor not only with funeral expenses to give Ben the best send-off he deserves, but also with living costs and preparing for their baby’s arrival.”

‘This support will give Taylor a little breathing room as she begins to navigate this incredibly difficult journey ahead.

‘Your donations, kindness, and prayers mean more than words can say. Thank you to everyone who has already shown love and support – it brings comfort knowing Ben’s memory is being honoured by so many.’

In the immediate wake of the attack, Ms Higginson had posted on Facebook: ‘Me and Ben always spoke about having a family, he was so happy when we found out Sunday night.

‘Monday morning, Ben got ripped away from me.’

South Yorkshire Police said five men had been charged in connection with the incident and remanded in custody.

Bradley Stevenson, 30, of Shelley Drive, Rotherham, appeared at Sheffield Magistrates’ Court charged with violent disorder, section 20 assault and dangerous driving.

Dean Cruickshanks, 30, of Monksbridge Road, Rotherham, was charged with violent disorder, possessing a blade in a public place and dangerous driving.

Stephen Heeley, 26, of Leicester Road, Dinnington, and Michael Hall, 44, of Worksop Road, Rotherham, were both charged with violent disorder and possessing a blade in a public place

Liam Hancock, 33, of Caperns Road, Rotherham, was charged with violent disorder and attempting to cause grievous bodily harm.

A spokesman for the force said: ‘Our thoughts remain with his family and friends at this difficult time. They continue to be supported by officers, and we ask that their privacy is respected.’

Mr Saxby had lost his older brother James last November, aged 30.

In tributes posted online, Becca Newbury wrote: ‘Becca Newbury wrote: ‘Your poor family – still can’t believe it, your back with your big brother James now. Rest in peace Ben.’

Susan Hunt added: “So sorry to read this – it’s absolutely devastating. Thinking of all the family and friends – but especially Taylor, you are in my thoughts sweetheart – try to keep strong.’