In a case that’s drawn nationwide attention, former Red Hot Chili Peppers guitarist Josh Klinghoffer learned his fate this week after pleading guilty to two counts of vehicular manslaughter. A California judge handed down a combined seven-year term—four years behind bars followed by three years of supervised release—for his role in a 2019 car crash that killed two teenage skateboarders.
The tragedy unfolded on a clear August evening near Joshua Tree. Authorities say Klinghoffer, driving a Land Rover, failed to stop at an intersection close to Yucca Valley and struck 17-year-old Austin and 14-year-old Chase as they rode along a rural stretch of road. Though the weather was dry, smoke from nearby wildfires had shrouded the area, reducing visibility. Investigators also noted that his driver’s license had been suspended at the time of the collision.
Under a negotiated plea agreement, Klinghoffer admitted responsibility and expressed regret for the lives lost. During sentencing, the court emphasized both the gravity of the offense and the artist’s willingness to seek help. He is expected to enter treatment programs for alcohol dependence and post-traumatic stress upon starting his term.
Klinghoffer first rose to prominence when he joined the Red Hot Chili Peppers in 2009, filling the spot vacated by John Frusciante. He recorded two full-length albums with the band before Frusciante’s return in 2019. Beyond the Chili Peppers, he’s lent his talents to projects with PJ Harvey, toured with Gnarls Barkley, and led the indie rock outfit Dot Hacker. Now, his career is on pause as he faces the legal and personal consequences of that fateful night.
