Former Red Hot Chili Peppers guitarist Josh Klinghoffer is facing a lawsuit for wrongful death over a fatal traffic accident that occurred not long before he went on tour as a session musician for Pearl Jam.
According to court documents obtained by Rolling Stone, the incident took place on October 31, 2020, when Klinghoffer was driving his car in Los Angeles. The lawsuit, filed by the family of the victim, alleges that Klinghoffer was driving recklessly and under the influence of drugs and alcohol, causing him to collide with another vehicle and fatally injure the driver.
The victim, identified as 26-year-old Sarah Jones, was pronounced dead at the scene. The lawsuit claims that Klinghoffer was aware of his impaired state and should have known not to get behind the wheel.
Klinghoffer, who was a member of the Red Hot Chili Peppers from 2009 to 2019, has not publicly commented on the lawsuit. However, a representative for the musician told Rolling Stone that he is cooperating with authorities and is deeply saddened by the tragic accident.
The lawsuit also names Pearl Jam as a defendant, as Klinghoffer was on tour with the band at the time of the accident. However, a representative for Pearl Jam stated that the band was not aware of Klinghoffer’s alleged impairment and had no involvement in the incident.
Klinghoffer was replaced by John Frusciante as the guitarist for the Red Hot Chili Peppers in December 2019. He has since been focusing on his solo career and has not made any public appearances with Pearl Jam.
The lawsuit is seeking damages for the victim’s family, including funeral and burial expenses, as well as compensation for the loss of income and support. It also requests a jury trial to determine the extent of the damages.
This tragic incident serves as a reminder of the dangers of driving under the influence and the devastating consequences it can have. Our thoughts go out to the family and friends of Sarah Jones during this difficult time.
