Most have no idea what took place… But the fans are well aware.
Former Red Hot Chili Peppers guitarist Josh Klinghoffer is embroiled in a wrongful death lawsuit following an incident where he allegedly ran over and killed a pedestrian. The lawsuit, filed by the victim’s daughter, Ashley Sanchez, accuses Klinghoffer of fatally striking 47-year-old Israel Sanchez at a crosswalk in Alhambra, California, earlier this year.
LOS ANGELES (AP) — Ex-Red Hot Chili Peppers guitarist Josh Klinghoffer is being sued for wrongful death and negligence after allegedly hitting and killing a pedestrian earlier this year. https://t.co/ZcE8D4eNnH
— Lootpress (@lootpress) July 11, 2024
The tragic event occurred on March 18, with Klinghoffer reportedly behind the wheel of a black GMC Yukon. According to the lawsuit, Israel Sanchez was hit while crossing the intersection of West Main Street and Meridian Avenue. Footage from the incident, obtained by TMZ, shows the SUV making a left turn and hitting Sanchez, who was on his way to the grocery store. The video also captures the driver exiting the vehicle, approaching the body, and then quickly returning to the car.
The lawsuit details the severe impact, stating that Sanchez was “thrown and/or dragged across the asphalt,” resulting in blunt force trauma to his head. Emergency services transported Sanchez to Huntington Hospital in Pasadena, where he succumbed to his injuries.
Ashley Sanchez’s lawsuit asserts that Klinghoffer was likely distracted while driving, as the video evidence indicates no attempt to brake or slow down before the collision. The suit claims this negligence demonstrates a willful disregard for the safety of others.
https://t.co/Ku1KXCn4hZ Former Chili Peppers Guitarist Josh Klinghoffer Sued For Allegedly Running Over Pedestrian. pic.twitter.com/LRTqOWCmsn
— Rod Ryan Show (@rodryanshow) July 11, 2024
Klinghoffer’s attorney, Andrew Brettler, responded by describing the incident as a “tragic accident.” Brettler emphasized that Klinghoffer cooperated fully with police, calling 911 and remaining at the scene until authorities arrived. Despite this, the lawsuit highlights that no arrests have been made in connection with the incident.
Ashley Sanchez, in her statement to People, expressed the profound loss of her father, describing him as a talented chef, a loving grandfather, and a man with an infectious smile. She lamented that his life was cut short by what she perceives as a careless act of driving. The lawsuit seeks a jury trial and damages to cover funeral, burial, and medical expenses, attorney fees, and compensation for the emotional and practical support her father provided.
Former Red Hot Chili Peppers guitarist Josh Klinghoffer is being sued for wrongful death stemming from a March 2024 auto accident. https://t.co/8lNFLy4ZqR
— X 107.5 (@X1075LV) July 11, 2024
Klinghoffer, who was a touring guitarist with Pearl Jam for their 2024 tour, has had a notable career in the music industry. He is best known for his tenure with the Red Hot Chili Peppers from 2009 to 2019, during which he recorded two studio albums and was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2012. Since leaving the Chili Peppers, Klinghoffer has collaborated with artists such as Iggy Pop and Jane’s Addiction.
The lawsuit brings a somber spotlight on Klinghoffer amidst his ongoing musical endeavors, reminding the public of the devastating consequences that can arise from moments of inattention while driving. As the case progresses, it will not only impact those directly involved but also resonate within the broader community, highlighting the importance of road safety and accountability.
Key Points:
i. Former Red Hot Chili Peppers guitarist Josh Klinghoffer is facing a wrongful death lawsuit for allegedly running over and killing a pedestrian, Israel Sanchez, in Alhambra, California.
ii. The lawsuit, filed by Sanchez’s daughter, claims Klinghoffer was driving distracted and caused the fatal collision, resulting in severe injuries that led to Sanchez’s death.
iii. Video footage shows Klinghoffer’s SUV making a left turn and hitting Sanchez, with no attempt to brake before the impact, and Klinghoffer remaining at the scene until police arrived.
iv. The lawsuit seeks damages for funeral, burial, and medical expenses, as well as compensation for the emotional and practical support Sanchez provided to his family.
v. Klinghoffer, who has collaborated with bands like Pearl Jam and Iggy Pop, describes the incident as a tragic accident and has cooperated with police during the investigation.
Susan Guglielmo – Reprinted with permission of Whatfinger News
