Jeremy Renner was helping someone stranded in the snow when snowplow accident happened

It's been revealed Jeremy Renner was helping a motorist when he was injured in a snowplow accident near Lake Tahoe.

The city’s mayor, Hillary Schieve, confirmed the Marvel star had been trying to free a stranded car outside his home on New Year’s Day when he was struck by his own vehicle, as per ABC News.

"He was helping someone stranded in the snow," Ms Schieve told the Reno Gazette-Journal, according to the outlet.

Ms Schieve said that she and the actor were friends and had been informed about the accident shortly after it happened on Sunday morning.

She added: “He is always helping others.”

The actor was airlifted from his home and transported to Reno Hospital in a 'critical but stable condition'.

“We can confirm that Jeremy has suffered blunt chest trauma and orthopedic injuries and has undergone surgery today, January 2nd 2023," a representative told Deadline.

They continued: "Jeremy’s family would like to express their gratitude to the incredible doctors and nurses looking after him, Truckee Meadows Fire and Rescue, Washoe County Sheriff, Reno City Mayor Hillary Schieve and the Carano and Murdock families.

"They are also tremendously overwhelmed and appreciative of the outpouring of love and support from his fans.”

He is currently in the intensive care unit recovering.

Earlier today (January 4), the 51-year-old took to social media, thanking his fans for their overwhelming support.

He wrote: “Thank you all for your kind words.. I’m too messed up now to type. But I send love to you all.”

Renner, who plays Hawkeye in the MCU, was sent well wishes by his fellow Marvel colleagues.

Taika Waititi commented below the post: “My brother I love you.”

While actor Mark Ruffalo shared on his Instagram story: "Prayers up for our brother on a full and speedy recovery. Please send healing goodness his way."

Over the weekend, The Washoe County sheriff's office confirmed they had 'responded to a traumatic injury in the area of Mt Rose Highway in Reno, Nevada'.

The sheriff's office said a powerful winter storm had dumped more than two feet (0.6 metres) of snow on the area Saturday night into Sunday morning.

They added that Renner was the only party injured in the incident on Mt Rose Highway and the investigation team would continue ‘looking into the circumstances’.