Father of Seven Dies in Berkeley School Construction Accident

Jonathan Dillard Guidi, a 41-year-old construction subcontractor and father of seven from Sacramento, tragically died after falling approximately 40 feet from scaffolding at the Sylvia Mendez Elementary School modernization project in Berkeley. The accident occurred on July 24 while the school was undergoing renovations and was empty of students and staff. Emergency responders found Guidi critically injured before transporting him to the hospital, where he later passed away. Investigations into his death are ongoing by the Alameda County Sheriff's Office, Berkeley Police Department, and California Division of Occupational Safety and Health, with closure expected within three to six months. Guidi is remembered fondly for his joyful personality and generosity, and his family has launched a GoFundMe campaign to raise $35,000 to support funeral expenses and living costs. Berkeley Unified School District expressed condolences and emphasized their support for the family and construction workers during this difficult time.