Seattle: The City of Seattle has approved a $29 million settlement with the family of Jaahnavi Kandula, a 23-year-old Indian student who was fatally struck by a police vehicle in 2023, bringing a significant legal chapter of the case to a close.
Kandula, who was pursuing a master’s degree in information systems at Northeastern University’s Seattle campus, died after being hit by a patrol car driven by Officer Kevin Dave. Authorities said the officer was responding to a reported drug overdose at the time and was travelling at speeds reaching 119 km/h in a zone limited to 40 km/h. His emergency lights were activated, and he had used the siren while passing through intersections.
City Attorney Erika Evans said in a statement that the resolution was intended to provide some measure of relief to Kandula’s family. “Her loss was devastating,” Evans said, adding that Kandula’s life had profound meaning to her loved ones and the wider community.
The agreement was formally filed in King County Superior Court last week. Roughly $20 million of the payout is expected to be covered through the city’s insurance policy.
The incident triggered widespread anger, both in the United States and in India, particularly after body camera footage from another officer became public. In the recording, Officer Daniel Auderer was heard laughing and making remarks suggesting Kandula’s life had “limited value” and implying that the city should simply compensate the family financially. The comments drew condemnation and led to protests demanding accountability.
A civilian oversight body later concluded that Auderer’s statements harmed public confidence in the police department. He was subsequently dismissed from service. Auderer has since filed a lawsuit challenging his termination, maintaining that his remarks were sarcastic and meant to criticise how legal authorities might assess the case.
Officer Dave, who was behind the wheel when the collision occurred, was also terminated. He was cited for negligent driving and fined $5,000. However, King County prosecutors opted not to pursue felony charges, stating that they could not establish beyond a reasonable doubt that he acted with criminal intent or reckless disregard for safety.
Kandula’s death also drew the attention of Indian diplomats, who called for a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash.
While the settlement does not reverse the tragedy, city officials say it marks an effort to acknowledge the loss and move toward accountability. The case has intensified debate over emergency response protocols, police conduct, and transparency within law enforcement agencies.
