Alhambra, CA ā Former Red Hot Chili Peppers guitarist Josh Klinghoffer is scheduled for arraignment on Thursday for a misdemeanor manslaughter charge related to a fatal Alhambra pedestrian crash. The incident occurred on March 18 when Klinghoffer struck and killed Israel Sanchez, who was walking in a crosswalk at Meridian Avenue near West Main Street.
Klinghoffer, a Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee known for his work with bands like Pearl Jam and Janeās Addiction, was driving a GMC Yukon at the time of the accident. According to video footage, he stopped immediately after the collision, got out of his vehicle, and called 911.
Sanchezās family has also filed a civil lawsuit, alleging that Klinghoffer was distracted during the crash. Their attorneys claim video evidence suggests the guitarist failed to brake before striking Sanchez and that an object, possibly a phone, was seen between the steering wheel and driver seconds before the collision.
However, Klinghofferās legal team disputes these claims, asserting that their client was not distracted. āThis was a tragic accident with no criminal intent,ā attorney Andrew B. Brettler told KTLA 5 News. āThe evidence shows Mr. Klinghoffer was not on the phone at the time.ā
Klinghofferās arraignment and ongoing legal battles serve as a reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of road safety. Our thoughts are with Israel Sanchezās family and all those affected by this tragic incident.
