In a heartbreaking turn of events on May 18, a compassionate father met with a fatal accident while assisting a family of ducks in crossing a busy road in California. The incident took place at the intersection of Stanford Ranch Road and Park Drive, where a driver, identified as a 17-year-old girl, tragically struck the man as he was being applauded for his benevolent gesture.
California man killed by car while helping ducks cross busy road 😔 pic.twitter.com/rtofPOyGff
— Daily Loud (@DailyLoud) May 22, 2023
The Altruistic Act. Witnessing the incident firsthand, twelve-year-old William Wimsatt shared harrowing details with KCRA 3. According to Wimsatt, the unidentified man had pulled over his car to lend a helping hand to the ducks, who were desperately in need of assistance to navigate the hazardous roadway.
Stepping out of his vehicle, the man fearlessly guided the ducks away from the traffic, earning him applause from onlookers who were deeply moved by his altruism. Quick to capture the act of compassion on his cell phone, Wimsatt discreetly documented the man’s selfless act as he shepherded the ducks across the road, ensuring their safe passage.
From Heroism to Tragedy. Tragically, what should have been a moment of celebration swiftly turned into a devastating tragedy when an approaching vehicle seemingly appeared out of thin air, striking the man who had just performed the heroic act. Onlookers, including Summer Peterson, were left in shock as they witnessed the man being forcefully hurled across the intersection.
Recalling the distressing incident, Wimsatt expressed with a heavy heart, “I didn’t see the car actually hit him. All I remember is the sound and then him flying across the intersection.”
Adding to the heart-wrenching nature of the accident, the man’s children were present in their car and witnessed the horrific event.
Ongoing Investigation. Local authorities are currently investigating the case, and they report that the teenage girl behind the wheel is cooperating fully with the investigation. At present, no charges are being considered, and the police have ruled out any suspicion of driving under the influence, as confirmed by KOVR.
While Wimsatt admitted to not knowing the man prior to the incident, he expressed his hope that people would remember him for his unparalleled selflessness and kindness. “He was the only person to get out of the car and try to help them and probably the nicest person in the entire area. It’s not fair,” he lamented.
Community Response and Tribute. The devastating loss of the compassionate father has profoundly shaken the local community. In remembrance of his extraordinary act, residents and children have erected displays of rubber duckies and flowers as a touching tribute to honor the man’s memory.
