Ex-Chili Peppers guitarist denies a manslaughter charge in the death of a pedestrian

Guitarist Josh Klinghoffer, a former Crimson Sizzling Chili Peppers member who has additionally performed with Pearl Jam, pleaded not responsible by way of his lawyer Thursday to a misdemeanor manslaughter cost within the dying of a pedestrian.

Authorities say Klinghoffer, 44, was driving an SUV and making a left flip in Alhambra, California, simply east of Los Angeles on March 18 when he hit 47-year-old Israel Sanchez, who was strolling in a crosswalk. Sanchez was later pronounced lifeless at a hospital.

Klinghoffer was charged on Aug. 29 with vehicular manslaughter with out gross negligence, a misdemeanor that may convey a most of 1 yr in jail and a $1,000 superb.

His lawyer, Blair Berk, entered the plea for him in an Alhambra courtroom. Berk declined to remark after the listening to.

Sanchez’s daughter filed a wrongful dying and negligence lawsuit in opposition to Klinghoffer in July. The lawsuit alleges Klinghoffer was driving with no plates and holding a telephone on the time of the collision.

Attorneys for Ashley Sanchez had been publicly and vocally essential of police for not bringing expenses for months after Israel Sanchez’s dying.

Klinghoffer performed guitar for the Crimson Sizzling Chili Peppers from 2009 to 2019. He changed longtime member John Frusciante, who has since returned to the band.

The position led to Klinghoffer’s induction into the Rock and Roll Corridor of Fame, making him among the many youngest members.

He has since performed as a touring and session guitarist for Pearl Jam and Jane’s Dependancy. He has performed on recordings for dozens of different artists.