Veteran rock guitarist Josh Klinghoffer will face court tomorrow for a misdemeanor vehicular manslaughter charge following a tragic accident in Alhambra, California.
At a Glance
- Former Red Hot Chili Peppers guitarist Josh Klinghoffer will be arraigned on Thursday at Alhambra Courthouse.
- Klinghoffer is charged with vehicular manslaughter without gross negligence.
- The incident occurred in March 2024, resulting in the death of Israel Sanchez.
- Sanchez’s family has filed a wrongful death lawsuit against Klinghoffer.
Details of the Incident
Veteran rock guitarist Josh Klinghoffer, known for his contributions to bands like Red Hot Chili Peppers, Jane’s Addiction, and Pearl Jam, will be arraigned for misdemeanor vehicular manslaughter without gross negligence. The accident took place on March 18, 2024, in Alhambra, California, involving Klinghoffer’s 2022 GMC Yukon and 47-year-old pedestrian Israel Sanchez.
Klinghoffer’s vehicle hit Sanchez at a crosswalk, leading to Sanchez’s death at Huntington Hospital. Reports suggest that driver distraction may have played a role in the unfortunate event.
The arraignment is set for tomorrow at 8:30 a.m. PT at Alhambra Courthouse. The guitarist has been released on his own recognizance but faces significant legal challenges.
Josh Klinghoffer, former Red Hot Chili Peppers guitarist and current touring member of Pearl Jam, has been charged with misdemeanor vehicular manslaughter → https://t.co/iONRo7BG9S pic.twitter.com/xwfRQ2ALMF
— CONSEQUENCE (@consequence) September 25, 2024
Legal Actions and Responses
Israel Sanchez’s family filed a wrongful death and negligence lawsuit against Klinghoffer in July. The lawsuit alleges that Klinghoffer might have been using his cellphone at the time of the incident, failing to brake in time. Prosecutors have charged him with a misdemeanor for negligence, specifically failure to yield.
This was a tragic accident. After Josh struck the pedestrian in the intersection, he immediately pulled over, called 911, and remained at the scene until police and paramedics arrived. He has fully cooperated with authorities throughout the investigation.
Israel Sanchez’s daughter, Ashley Sanchez, is the only child and the plaintiff in the lawsuit filed against Klinghoffer. Her attorney, Nick Rowley, demands that Klinghoffer face higher charges, possibly homicide, due to the nature of the incident.
Klinghoffer’s Musical Career
Klinghoffer joined the Red Hot Chili Peppers in 2009 and remained a member for a decade, contributing to major albums like “I’m With You” and “The Getaway.” He was replaced by the band’s longtime guitarist, John Frusciante, in 2019. Currently, Klinghoffer tours as a live member of Pearl Jam and Jane’s Addiction.
Josh Klinghoffer, the former Red Hot Chili Peppers guitarist who has also logged time as a touring member of bands like Pearl Jam and Jane’s Addiction, was sued for wrongful death back in July.
As the arraignment approaches, Klinghoffer continues to face public scrutiny and legal battles, casting a shadow on his long and prolific music career.
Sources
1. PEARL JAM Guitarist JOSH KLINGHOFFER Charged With Vehicular Manslaughter
