[07-24-2025] Alameda County, CA – Worker Dies After Fall from Scaffolding at Elementary School Construction Site in Berkeley

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.

Construction accident lawyers in Berkeley may be able to help you understand your legal rights and explore potential compensation options. While every case is unique, early consultation with an attorney can assist with investigating the incident, preserving evidence, and determining whether you might have a case for a workers’ compensation claim or a third-party lawsuit.

If you or a loved one has been affected by a construction site accident, you may contact us at (888) 488-1391 or fill out our “Do I Have a Case?” form for further guidance.

Steps To Take After A Fatal Construction Accident In Berkeley, CA

When a construction worker dies in an on-the-job accident, the family members left behind are often left with many unanswered questions. Taking specific steps following the incident can help protect your legal rights and ensure that justice is pursued.

1. Obtain The Official Accident Report
   Following an accident at a construction site, an official report is often prepared by law enforcement and/or safety agencies like Cal/OSHA. These reports typically include details about the accident, witness statements, and an initial investigation. Obtaining this report can help you understand how the incident was documented and offer insight into the circumstances surrounding the fatality.
2. Collect Medical Records And Documentation
   If the worker were transported to a hospital, gathering medical records, trauma activation details, and any notes from medical professionals would be important. In the event of a fatality, the death certificate and hospital records will be crucial for any legal or insurance-related proceedings.
3. Preserve Evidence
   It may be beneficial to preserve any physical evidence related to the accident, such as photographs, the worker’s personal items, or construction equipment involved in the incident. Preserving evidence can play a significant role in understanding how the accident occurred and can be vital in pursuing a legal claim.
4. Be Careful In Insurance Discussions
   In the aftermath of a fatal construction accident, insurance companies may contact the deceased worker’s family. It is crucial to approach conversations with insurers carefully, as early decisions or statements can impact your ability to pursue legal action later. Consulting with an experienced construction accident lawyer before making any statements may be beneficial.
5. Consult With Construction Accident Lawyers
   Seeking legal guidance after a construction accident may provide you with the support and clarity you need to make informed decisions. A lawyer can help review the circumstances surrounding the incident, advise you on your options for legal action, and ensure that key evidence is preserved. Legal counsel during this time may offer peace of mind and help you navigate the complexities of workers’ compensation claims or third-party lawsuits.

I HAD AN ACCIDENT

Construction Accident Statistics

The construction industry remains one of the most dangerous fields in the United States. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), one in every five workplace fatalities occurs on a construction site.

In 2021, construction deaths rose significantly, reaching an average of nearly 10 fatalities per year, compared to the previous average of around 9 to 9.6 deaths annually. That same year, approximately 83 construction workers lost their lives, marking one of the deadliest periods for the industry. Earlier, in 2019, more than 1,030 workers died due to falls, slips, and trips at construction sites, highlighting the constant dangers workers face every day.

Certain groups of workers are at even higher risk. Construction workers between the ages of 25 and 34 were the most likely to suffer injuries or fatalities. Specialty trade contractors also experienced the highest number of deaths within the construction sector, with alarming spikes recorded in 2018, 2020, and 2021.