Former Red Hot Chili Peppers guitarist Josh Klinghoffer is facing a wrongful death lawsuit after allegedly striking and killing a pedestrian named Israel Sanchez in Alhambra, California, on March 18. According to multiple reports, Klinghoffer was driving a black SUV with no license plates when the collision occurred at the intersection of West Main Street and Meridian Avenue.
Sanchez was crossing the street in a marked crosswalk when he was hit by Klinghoffer's vehicle. He sustained blunt force trauma to the head and died from his injuries a few hours later at Huntington Hospital in Pasadena.
The lawsuit, filed by Ashley Sanchez, Israel's daughter, alleges that Klinghoffer was likely driving while distracted at the time of the collision. Video footage obtained from a neighbor's Ring camera shows Klinghoffer holding an object above the steering wheel, which is suspected to be a cellphone.
Klinghoffer's attorney, Andrew Brettler, has stated that it was a tragic accident and that his client immediately pulled over and called 911 after the incident. However, Klinghoffer has not reached out to the Sanchez family since then.
Israel Sanchez was known for being a great chef and a loving grandpa. His sudden death has left his family devastated.
The investigation into the collision is still ongoing, and no charges have been filed against Klinghoffer yet. The lawsuit seeks damages for wrongful death and negligence.
Klinghoffer performed with the Red Hot Chili Peppers from 2009 to 2019 and was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame with the band in 2012. Since leaving the band, he has toured and recorded with Pearl Jam and Iggy Pop.
