A man who drove home for Christmas to be with his family has been beaten to death by thieves while enjoying a bike ride.

Nahuel Zerrizuela, 34, was killed in the small town of Aguilares in the north-western Argentinian province of Tucuman on 19th December.

After travelling to Aguilares to spend Christmas with his family, the victim decided to enjoy a bike ride and at one point stopped at a stream to cool off in the water.

While in the stream, two thieves tried to steal his bike and Nahuel ran out of the water to intervene.

The victim was reportedly attacked by the thieves, who ended up leaving his bike behind, but stole his backpack and wallet before fleeing.

According to the news site TN, the victim tried to cycle home, but had to stop due to the injuries to his head and abdomen.

A passing van driver saw the injured man struggling on the road and took him to a nearby hospital.

He was treated at the hospital and promptly discharged, however he continued to feel unwell at his family home and concerned relatives took him back to the same hospital.

After being seen at the health centre, doctors decided to transfer him to another hospital in the city of Concepcion.

Despite undergoing two operations in Concepcion, the young man succumbed to his injuries.

His funeral is due to take place today (23rd December).

According to TN, the victim’s family, friends and neighbours are planning a protest to demand justice for Nahuel and call for increased security in the small town, which they describe as unsafe and plagued by local criminals.