Family raising funds after father of 7 dies in construction accident at Berkeley school

A tragic scaffolding accident resulted in the death of Jonathan Dillard Guidi, a 41-year-old subcontractor and father of seven, at Sylvia Mendez Elementary School in Berkeley. Guidi fell approximately 40 feet while working on a modernization project and was found in critical condition by emergency responders on July 24. The school was closed to students and staff during the renovation, ensuring their safety. Local authorities, including the Berkeley Police Department and the California Division of Occupational Safety and Health, are conducting investigations to determine the cause of the accident. Guidi's family is raising funds through a GoFundMe campaign to cover funeral expenses and has already reached over $29,525 of their $35,000 goal.

Trish McDermott, a spokesperson for the Berkeley Unified School District, expressed condolences and emphasized the importance of contractors in school modernization. Loved ones remembered Guidi as a vibrant individual who brought joy to those around him. His death highlights ongoing safety concerns in construction, prompting investigations into workplace practices.