Sep 18, 2025

Governor Newsom honors fallen Caltrans worker

SACRAMENTO — Governor Gavin Newsom issued the following statement regarding the death of California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) Transportation Engineer – Construction Inspector Mahdi Khorram.

“Jennifer and I are deeply saddened to learn of the death today of Caltrans worker Mahdi Khorram. An employee since 2023, Mahdi was a dedicated public servant committed to making our roads safer for all Californians. We extend our deepest sympathies to his family, friends and colleagues mourning this terrible tragedy.”

Mahdi, 39, died today after being struck by an asphalt truck in the construction closure on Highway 4 in Contra Costa County. Based in Concord in District 4 (Bay Area), he was assigned to the project as a construction inspector. 

Mahdi is survived by his wife and a three-year-old child. 

In Mahdi’s honor, flags at the State Capitol and Capitol Annex Swing Space will be flown at half-staff.

Recent news

Governor Newsom announces appointments 4.17.26

News SACRAMENTO –Governor Gavin Newsom today announced the following appointments:Russell Fong, of Sacramento, has been appointed Undersecretary of the Government Operations Agency. Fong was Chief Deputy Director at the Governor’s Office of Planning and Research from...