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Authorities say Klinghoffer, 44, was driving an SUV and making a
left turn in Alhambra, California, just east of Los Angeles on
March 18 when he hit 47-year-old Israel Sanchez, who was walking
in a crosswalk. Sanchez was later pronounced dead at a hospital.
Klinghoffer was charged on Aug. 29 with vehicular manslaughter
without gross negligence, a misdemeanor that can bring a maximum
of one year in jail and a $1,000 fine. He is not charged with
having any violent intent, only with a failure to yield.
His lawyer, Blair Berk, entered the plea for him in an Alhambra
courtroom. Berk declined to comment after the hearing.
Sanchez's daughter filed a wrongful death and negligence lawsuit
against Klinghoffer in July. The lawsuit alleges Klinghoffer was
driving with no plates and using a phone at the time of the
collision, though that is not part of the charges.
Lawyers for Ashley Sanchez had been publicly and vocally
critical of police for not bringing charges for months after
Israel Sanchez's death.
Klinghoffer played guitar for the Red Hot Chili Peppers from
2009 to 2019. He replaced longtime member John Frusciante, who
has since returned to the band.
The role led to Klinghoffer's induction into the Rock and Roll
Hall of Fame, making him among the youngest members.
He has since played as a touring and session guitarist for Pearl
Jam and Jane's Addiction. He has played on recordings for dozens
of other artists.
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