A construction worker died after falling from scaffolding at an elementary school construction site in Berkeley on Thursday afternoon, July 24, 2025.
According to the Berkeley Fire Department, the incident occurred at approximately 12:50 p.m. at Sylvia Mendez Elementary School, located at 2840 Ellsworth Street.
Authorities said the worker fell about 30 feet from scaffolding onto the concrete surface below. Emergency responders transported him to Highland Hospital in critical condition with trauma activation. He was able to speak to firefighters en route but was later pronounced dead at the hospital.
The Alameda County Coroner’s Office identified the deceased as 41-year-old Jonathan Dillard Guidi of Sacramento.
The Berkeley Unified School District confirmed the incident involved a subcontractor working on the school’s renovation project. No students or staff were present at the time due to ongoing summer construction.
According to Berkeley police, the worker had been installing scaffolding when he fell. Both BPD and Cal/OSHA are conducting investigations into the incident.
Authorities continue to investigate the incident.
Contact Our Construction Accident Lawyers In Berkeley, CA
Construction accidents can result in severe injuries or even fatalities, particularly in high-risk environments such as scaffolding work. When a construction worker suffers an injury or death on the job, the emotional and financial toll on their family can be overwhelming. If you or someone you know has been affected by a construction accident in Berkeley, understanding your legal options may be a crucial step in navigating this difficult time.
Don’t Know What To Do After An Accident?
Your safety and rights depend on what you do next after an accident. Remember the following steps if you find yourself in one:
- Check yourself for any injuries.
- Stay on the scene, call 9-1-1, and wait for emergency responders.
- Move your vehicle to the road shoulder if safe; turn on hazard lights.
- Fully cooperate with law enforcement and stay until cleared to leave.
- Document the scene and injuries with photos and videos.
- Seek immediate medical attention.
- Contact your insurance company and find a personal injury lawyer for legal advice.
What A Lawyer Can Do For You
Many victims put off calling a lawyer even if they sustain injuries after an accident. However, lawyers can help you in many ways. They can provide you with police reports, CCTV footage, and witness statements to strengthen your case. Your attorney will also negotiate with insurance companies to get you fair compensation. The best part is that they will do all of these things for you at no upfront cost. So if you’re injured in an accident, hire a personal injury attorney to recover medical bills, car repair costs, lost wages, and pain and suffering.