Former Red Hot Chili Peppers guitarist Josh Klinghoffer pleaded not guilty to a charge of misdemeanor vehicular manslaughter without gross negligence after hitting and killing a pedestrian in a crosswalk in California. The victim, 47-year-old Israel Sanchez, died from blunt force trauma to the head on Mar. 18, 2024. Klinghoffer’s wrongful death suit alleges he was using his cell phone while driving, but police say there was no phone involved in the accident. Klinghoffer’s attorney calls it a tragic accident, saying he immediately stopped and called 911.
The LA County DA has charged Klinghoffer with misdemeanor vehicular manslaughter without gross negligence, despite claims of negligence by Sanchez’s family. An attorney for the family states there is video evidence of Klinghoffer holding a phone while driving just before the collision. The case is ongoing, and Klinghoffer did not make an appearance at his arraignment, with his lawyer entering the plea. Klinghoffer, who joined the Red Hot Chili Peppers in 2009 and was later let go in 2019, is currently on tour with Pearl Jam and releases music as Pluralone.
While Klinghoffer has been a prominent figure in the alt-rock scene, this legal battle may change his career trajectory. As the court case continues, the details surrounding the tragic accident will be further examined. The intersection between personal responsibility and legal consequences raises questions about the often-fatal consequences of distracted driving and the importance of road safety for driver and pedestrian alike.
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