CLOVIS, Calif. — A family is mourning their son after he was violently assaulted in what they describe as a senseless act of aggression. Geoff Bernardi, 37, remains hospitalized following the brutal attack that occurred early Thursday morning, prompting his family to seek justice.
Erin Adams, Bernardi’s mother, expressed her heartbreak as she prepares to say goodbye to her son. “I find it incredibly difficult to be in the same room with him because this isn’t my boy anymore,” she said tearfully. The assault took place near the Dry Creek canal, located behind the Pacific Grove Apartments, while Bernardi stepped out to smoke.
According to Adams, the attack began when Bernardi was approached by an unidentified individual requesting a cigarette. After agreeing to share one, he was struck in the head and fell to the ground. In a moment of desperation, he shouted to his girlfriend to escape. The assailant continued to beat him, leaving him severely injured.
Clovis Police Chief Ty Wood stated that although the department frequently responds to calls in the area, nothing has echoed the severity of this incident. Investigators confirmed that Bernardi’s injuries were not typical of a fistfight but appeared to have resulted from a blunt object.
Police are appealing to the community for assistance in identifying the perpetrator, as the case remains classified as aggravated battery. “Detectives and crime scene personnel were deployed to gather evidence,” Wood added. “We urge anyone with information to come forward.”
In the midst of this tragedy, Adams reflected on her son’s contributions to the community. Bernardi was a respected educator with Clovis Unified, who passionately engaged students in theater productions. “He cared deeply for everyone,” Adams said. “He always looked after his family. We can’t believe his time has been cut so short.”
With Bernardi scheduled to celebrate his 38th birthday next month, his family has made the heartbreaking decision to remove him from life support. They hope to honor his legacy by donating his organs, potentially saving multiple lives.
As of now, no arrests have been made, leaving the family and community in anguish as they await justice. They continue to remember Bernardi not just for the tragedy of his passing but for the love and joy he brought into the lives of those around him.