A Rock and Roll Hall of Fame guitarist is facing manslaughter charges in connection with a fatal crash. Josh Klinghoffer, known for his work with the Red Hot Chili Peppers, Pearl Jam, and Jane’s Addiction, is set to be arraigned on a misdemeanor charge of vehicular manslaughter without gross negligence this Thursday. The 44-year-old is accused of striking and killing a man during an auto-pedestrian accident on March 18.
Israel Sanchez, 47, was walking in a crosswalk in Alhambra, California, when he was hit by Klinghoffer’s GMC Yukon. Security camera footage reportedly shows Klinghoffer exiting his vehicle and calling 911 immediately after the incident. Sanchez was pronounced dead later that day at a local hospital.
Sanchez’s family alleges that Klinghoffer was likely “driving while distracted” and “made no efforts to brake or slow down” prior to the collision. In a civil lawsuit, they claim video footage captured seconds before the crash indicates Klinghoffer appeared to be using his phone.
Klinghoffer’s attorney has denied these claims. “This was a tragic accident. There was no criminal intent, nor is any alleged,” said Andrew B. Brettler, Klinghoffer’s lawyer, in a statement to KTLA.
Klinghoffer was the guitarist for the Red Hot Chili Peppers from 2009 to 2019, during which he recorded two albums: “I’m With You” in 2011 and “The Getaway” in 2016. He became the youngest inductee into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame at age 32 in 2012 with the band.
After being dismissed from the Red Hot Chili Peppers in 2019, when guitarist John Frusciante rejoined, Klinghoffer toured with Pearl Jam this year and has performed with other artists including Jane’s Addiction, Gnarls Barkley, Iggy Pop, and Morrissey, as well as under his solo act, Pluralone.
Related Topics
- Dmytro Udovychenko: Championing Ukraine through Music After Queen Elisabeth Competition Win
- Lost Manuscript Chronicles the Early Friendship of Jerry Garcia and Robert Hunter
- Lunchtime Concert at Bury Parish Church Features Rising Stars Aaron Le Maistre and Nathan Joseph
