Josh Klinghoffer Pleads Not Guilty to Manslaughter

Josh Klinghoffer, former guitarist for the Red Hot Chili Peppers, has pleaded not guilty to a misdemeanor vehicular manslaughter charge following the death of pedestrian Israel Sanchez in March. Authorities allege Klinghoffer, 44, was driving an SUV when he struck Sanchez, 47, who was crossing the street, resulting in Sanchez's death hours later at a hospital. The charge, filed on August 29, carries a maximum penalty of one year in jail and a $1,000 fine. Sanchez's family filed a wrongful death lawsuit alleging Klinghoffer was using his phone and driving without license plates at the time of the incident, with claims of video evidence supporting their case. Ashley Sanchez, the victim's daughter, expressed frustration over the charge's classification, advocating for justice for her father. Klinghoffer's attorney described the incident as a tragic accident and stated he is fully cooperating with the investigation.