Josh Klinghoffer, once the guitarist for Red Hot Chili Peppers, is facing a lawsuit over an incident that led to a man’s death in Alhambra, California.
The family of Israel Sanchez, who was 47 years old, claims that Klinghoffer hit him with his car on March 18. They say he was distracted by his phone while driving an SUV and made a left turn as Sanchez walked in a crosswalk. The crash caused serious head injuries, and Sanchez passed away hours later. No arrest has been made so far.
Klinghoffer’s lawyer, Andrew B. Brettler, mentioned that Josh stopped right away after the accident, called 911, and stayed until help arrived. He says Josh is working closely with investigators to figure out what happened.
Nick Rowley, the lawyer for Sanchez’s family, argues Klinghoffer should face charges for killing Israel Sanchez. He insists they have video proof showing Josh on his phone during the crash. Israel was just going to buy ingredients to make soup for his family when he was hit by the SUV from behind while following all pedestrian rules. Now his family is heartbroken and grieving deeply. Rowley vows not to rest until there’s justice for Sanchez’s family.
I think it’s really sad when accidents like this happen because someone wasn’t paying attention while driving.
Klinghoffer played with Red Hot Chili Peppers from 2009 until John Frusciante came back in 2019. In 2012, he became the youngest person ever inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame with them. After leaving the band, he’s been performing with Pearl Jam and Jane’s Addiction.
