Josh Klinghoffer, former Red Hot Chili Peppers guitarist and current touring member of Pearl Jam, was arraigned in a California court on Thursday on a misdemeanor charge of vehicular manslaughter without gross negligence. Through he attorney, he pleaded not guilty.
The charge stems from a car accident on March 18th, 2024, in which Klinghoffer struck 47-year-old pedestrian Israel Sanchez with his SUV in Alhambra, California. Sanchez was in a crosswalk and hit from behind. He was transported to a local hospital, where he was later pronounced dead.
In July, Sanchez’s family filed a wrongful death lawsuit against Klinghoffer, alleging that he was distracted while driving and failed to brake in time.
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According to Rolling Stone, a source with knowledge of the investigation said that “no criminal intent is alleged” and a review of the evidence determined “there was no phone involved.” However, a lawyer representing Sanchez’s family, Grayson Yoder, said the video he has seen “appears” to show Klinghoffer “holding a phone,” and he has not been presented any exculpatory exculpatory to the contrary. Yoder also believes the fact that Klinghoffer never used his brakes is proof of “gross negligence.”
Klinghoffer did not attend the hearing in person. His attorney, Andrew Brettler, previously issued a statement saying, “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.”
Following today’s hearing, Sanchez’s daughter told Rolling Stone that, “We’re seeking justice here. I don’t know why Josh is getting just a misdemeanor. It’s not okay. My father was a very great father.”
