Ex-Red Hot Chili Peppers guitarist Josh Klinghoffer faces lawsuit after fatal pedestrian accident

Former Red Hot Chili Peppers guitarist Josh Klinghoffer is embroiled in a legal battle following a lawsuit filed against him for a fatal pedestrian collision in Alhambra, California. 

Israel Sanchez, 47, tragically lost his life on March 18 while walking through a marked crosswalk on his way to buy groceries for his family.

The lawsuit, filed by Sanchez’s daughter Ashley and obtained by PEOPLE, claims Klinghoffer, 44, was possibly driving distractedly and using a device moments before the incident. 

Allegedly, Klinghoffer failed to brake or slow down until after striking Sanchez, causing severe head trauma that led to Sanchez’s death about two and a half hours later.

In response, Klinghoffer’s attorney Andrew Brettler stated to TMZ that the collision was a "tragic accident." According to Brettler, Klinghoffer immediately stopped, called 911, and cooperated with authorities during their investigation. 

The lawsuit, however, notes that Klinghoffer did not contact the Sanchez family or express remorse for his actions.

Video footage obtained by PEOPLE captures a black GMC Yukon hitting Sanchez without reducing speed, followed by Klinghoffer exiting the vehicle. A pre-incident photo allegedly shows Klinghoffer holding a cellphone.

Ashley Sanchez remembered her father fondly, describing him as a skilled chef and loving grandparent. She seeks a jury trial and damages encompassing funeral expenses, legal fees, and compensation for the loss of her father’s companionship and support.

Klinghoffer, who joined the Red Hot Chili Peppers in 2009 and departed in 2019, recorded two albums with the band before departing upon John Frusciante’s return.