Josh Klinghoffer Pleads Not Guilty to Manslaughter

Former Red Hot Chili Peppers guitarist Josh Klinghoffer pleaded not guilty to a misdemeanor manslaughter charge in connection with the death of pedestrian Israel Sanchez, who was struck while walking in a crosswalk in Alhambra, California, on March 18. Klinghoffer is accused of distracted driving, with allegations that he was on his phone at the time of the collision, though these claims are disputed by his attorney. The incident has resulted in a civil wrongful death lawsuit filed by Sanchez's daughter, who claims video evidence shows Klinghoffer failed to brake before the impact. Klinghoffer, who was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2012, faces a maximum penalty of one year in jail and a $1,000 fine if convicted. His attorney characterized the incident as a tragic accident, noting that Klinghoffer called 911 immediately after the collision. The case highlights ongoing concerns about distracted driving and its consequences.