The young mother killed after running onto the road to try to save a dying motorcyclist at the site of an accident has been remembered for her devotion to her two children.

Emily, 27, was killed by a passing car in Wantirna, east Melbourne, on Monday night.

Her relatives issued a brief statement on Wednesday, saying they were “devastated” to have lost “our beautiful Emily”.

Emily was killed by a passing car on Monday night. Photo: Victoria Police

“Emily was a loving wife and devoted mother to her son aged five and daughter aged seven,” the family said.

“She was a genuinely caring person right down to her line of work, where she cared for dementia patients.”

The mum of two stopped to help a motorcyclist who was lying on the road after being hit by an Audi at a Wantirna intersection on Monday night.

A passing Honda hit and killed the good Samaritan and the motorcyclist, 37, also died.

“We are so very touched and thankful for all the personal messages and tributes and for the concern which has been shown for the wellbeing of our close family,” the family said.

After her death, police described Emily’s actions as heroic.

“This lady has stepped forward, thought she could help and unfortunately, it’s led to her death. She’s a hero,” police crash investigator Acting Detective Inspector Brad McArthur told reporters.

“We see some really good people trying to do the right thing and ending up in circumstances where they’re being killed or injured as well – this is a perfect example of that,” he said.

Drivers of both the Audi and Honda have been interviewed by police and investigations continue.

Investigators said the motorcyclist was travelling “well in excess” of the 80km/h speed limit when he was thrown from his bike. He was carrying a white powder and was known to police, Insp McArthur said.

Emily’s family has asked for privacy as they grieve for their loved one.

-with AAP