Last Updated on September 18, 2025 by The HD Post Staff
CALIFORNIA – Caltrans is mourning employee Mahdi Khorram, killed September 18 while working on Highway 4 in Contra Costa County.
Around 1:30 a.m., Khorram, 39, was fatally struck by an asphalt truck in a Highway 4 construction zone in Contra Costa County.
“Mahdi was more than a colleague — he was a valued member of our Caltrans family,” said Caltrans Director Dina El-Tawansy. His tragic death is a devastating loss to his family, friends and for all of his colleagues.”
El-Tawansy said she extends her prayers and deepest sympathy to Khorram’s loved ones and all who knew and worked with him.
Based in Concord, Khorram began at Caltrans in 2023 and was a transportation engineer – construction inspector. He is survived by his wife and three-year-old child.
In Khorram’s honor, flags will be lowered to half-staff at the State Capitol, Capitol Annex Swing Space and all Caltrans buildings.
Nearly 200 Caltrans workers have died
Since 1921, 195 Caltrans workers have lost their lives on the job.
AB 289, pending Governor Gavin Newsom’s signature, would allow Caltrans to deploy speed cameras in highway work zones to protect construction and maintenance crews.
RELATED: Red-Light and speed cameras may multiply across California
