Former Red Hot chili peppers Guitarist Sued for Wrongful Death in Distracted Driving Tragedy
Josh Klinghoffer, guitarist for Pearl Jam and former member of the Red Hot Chili Peppers, is facing a wrongful death lawsuit following a fatal car accident in Alhambra, California. The lawsuit, filed by Ashley Sanchez, alleges that Klinghoffer was distracted by his cellphone when he struck and killed her father, Israel Sanchez, on March 18, 2024.
According to the lawsuit, Sanchez was walking in a marked crosswalk when Klinghoffer, driving a 2022 GMC Yukon, made a left turn and hit him without braking. Klinghoffer’s attorney stated that he immediately stopped, called 911, and cooperated fully with the investigation.
Ample time and space
Ashley Sanchez’s lawsuit claims that her father was following all pedestrian laws and had checked for oncoming traffic before crossing. The suit states that Klinghoffer had ample time and space to see Sanchez but failed to do so due to being distracted by his phone.
The lawsuit seeks a jury trial and damages for funeral and medical expenses, as well as compensation for the loss of companionship, care, and protection.
Greater accountability and justice
The incident has led to calls for greater accountability and justice from the Sanchez family, with their attorney, Nick Rowley, asserting that Klinghoffer should face criminal charges. The family has also released video footage purportedly showing Klinghoffer holding an object moments before the collision.
Representatives for Pearl Jam have not commented on the lawsuit, and it remains unclear which police agency handled the investigation.
