A father of two who was described as “kind and amazing”, died after being struck by a vehicle for getting out of his car to help ducks navigate a busy intersection.

Casey Rivara (41), was driving home with his children after swimming practice, when he noticed a mother duck and her ducklings trying to cross the road, according to Tracey Rivara.

Mr Rivara, who lives in Rocklin about 20 miles northeast from Sacramento, parked his vehicle at a crossroads and managed to herd the animals across safely as nearby people applauded.

According to his relative, he was hit as he returned to his vehicle.

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Police said that Mr Rivara had been “trying help some ducklings in the intersection”, when a teenaged driver hit him on the road and killed him.

The victim was pronounced dead at the scene. The ducks did not suffer any harm in this incident.

Captain Scott Horrillo, of Rocklin Police, stated that the 17-year old girl driving the car remained on the scene. While the investigation is ongoing, it’s unlikely that she will face criminal charges.

“We have a lot to go through and a lot to look at, but on first glance it doesn’t look like criminal negligence,” Capt Horrillo said to NBC News.

A 12-year-old told NBC Sacramento affiliate KCRA that the tragedy unfolded before locals who praised Mr Rivara’s efforts.

“Everyone was applauding because he was really nice”

The child said, “He got out the car and was shooing ducks. Everyone was clapping for him because he had been so nice.”

He helped them to get over the kerb, because the baby ducks were struggling. Then he walked right in front of our vehicle.”

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The widow of Mr Rivara said that she and her family were “deeply moved” by the love and support they received.

Angel Chow posted a Facebook statement saying: “We are grateful for all the nice messages and kindness gestures.

It’s humbling to learn how Casey positively affected your lives. We’re grateful for this.”

An aunt of Mr Rivara has set up a GoFundMe account to raise money for the family after the tragedy that occurred last Thursday night.

She wrote: “Casey is the most kind, amazing father and husband. Even his final act was a testament to his compassion. “The family is struggling to find a way to move on and recover from this enormous loss.”