Josh Klinghoffer, Pearl Jam and Red-Hot Chili Peppers Guitarist Sued for Wrongful Death
Guitarist Josh Klinghoffer, from Pearl Jam and Red-Hot Chili Peppers, is sued over a fatal traffic accident involving a pedestrian's death. Ethan Miller/Getty Images

Renowned guitarist Josh Klinghoffer, formerly of the Red Hot Chili Peppers, Pearl Jam, and Jane's Addiction, is embroiled in a legal battle following a tragic incident involving a pedestrian in Alhambra, California.

The lawsuit, filed in Los Angeles Superior Court, alleges negligence and wrongful death after Klinghoffer's involvement in a fatal vehicular accident, according to Deadline.

According to the lawsuit, on March 18, Josh Klinghoffer, 44, was driving a black GMC Yukon in Alhambra when he made a left turn that resulted in a collision with 47-year-old Israel Sanchez.

Sanchez, who was reportedly on his way to a grocery store, was walking within a marked crosswalk when Klinghoffer's vehicle struck him from behind.

The impact caused Sanchez to suffer blunt force trauma to the head, and despite efforts to save him, he succumbed to his injuries more than 2 hours after the accident.

Legal Claims and Response

The lawsuit, filed by Sanchez's daughter Ashley, alleges that Josh Klinghoffer was distracted by a cell phone at the time of the incident and failed to brake or slow down before striking Sanchez.

Klinghoffer's attorney, Andrew Brettler, described the event as a "tragic accident," emphasizing that Klinghoffer immediately stopped, called 911, and cooperated fully with authorities at the scene.

While no arrests have been made, the lawsuit criticizes Klinghoffer for allegedly showing no remorse or contacting the Sanchez family following the incident.

Josh Klinghoffer, known for his tenure with the Red Hot Chili Peppers from 2009 to 2019, where he recorded acclaimed albums and toured extensively, is currently on tour with Pearl Jam.

The lawsuit claims Klinghoffer was using a device moments before the collision, a detail underscored by video footage obtained by TMZ showing the incident.

Ashley Sanchez, grieving the loss of her father, described him as a beloved family figure known for his culinary skills and infectious smile.

She has initiated a GoFundMe campaign to cover funeral expenses and other costs associated with her father's tragic death.

Legal Proceedings and Moving Forward

Ashley seeks a jury trial and damages that include funeral expenses, medical bills, attorney fees, and compensation for the loss of her father's companionship and support, People noted.

The case highlights the legal complexities surrounding traffic accidents and raises questions about accountability in such incidents.

As investigations continue and legal proceedings unfold, the community awaits further developments in this somber chapter involving Josh Klinghoffer and the tragic loss of Israel Sanchez.

The lawsuit against Josh Klinghoffer underscores the gravity of road safety and the devastating consequences of accidents.

As legal teams prepare for a courtroom battle, the memory of Israel Sanchez lives on in the hearts of those who knew him, while the pursuit of justice remains paramount for his grieving family.

This article is owned by Latin Post.

Written by: Ross Key

WATCH: Josh Klinghoffer, former RHCP guitarist, sued for wrongful death - From FOX 11 Los Angeles