Dobbins, CA – On the afternoon of Thursday, August 7, 2025, a construction accident claimed the life of Daniel Bustos Mendez, 33, according to FOX40.

The Yuba County Sheriff’s Office reports that the accident took place around 3:45 PM near the New Colgate Powerhouse in Dobbins.

Authorities said Mendez had been operating construction equipment at the site when both he and the equipment went down a steep embankment adjacent to the powerhouse. Emergency responders arrived at the location and determined that Mendez had sustained fatal injuries from the incident.

Mendez was a contractor working for Yuba Water Agency at the time of the accident. Yuba Water Agency officials stated that they are assisting investigators in determining the circumstances that led to the fatal fall. The agency also expressed condolences to Mendez’s family, friends, coworkers, and staff members who were involved in the emergency response.

California Workers’ Compensation Death Benefits

When a worker dies due to a job-related injury or illness, surviving family members may be eligible for Workers’ Compensation Death Benefits. These payments can help support spouses, children, or other financial dependents impacted by the loss.