Seattle Pays $29 Million to Family of Indian Student Killed by Police Car

Seattle has agreed to pay $29 million to the family of Jaahnavi Kandula, an Indian student who died in 2023 after being hit by a police car. This settlement comes after public concern about the incident and comments made by an officer.
By Newsroom | USA, Seattle |

The city of Seattle has agreed to a $29 million settlement with the family of Jaahnavi Kandula, an Indian student who died in 2023 after being struck by a speeding police vehicle. This resolution follows significant public outcry and diplomatic attention concerning the circumstances of Kandula's death and subsequent remarks made by an officer. The settlement aims to provide closure to Kandula's family, acknowledging the tragic loss of her life.

Indian Student Jaahnavi Kandula's death: Seattle to pay Rs 262 crore in settlement - 1

Background of the Incident

Jaahnavi Kandula, a graduate student pursuing a master's degree in information systems at Northeastern University's Seattle campus, was killed on January 26, 2023. The incident occurred when she was crossing a street and was struck by a Seattle police patrol vehicle driven by Officer Kevin Dave. Reports indicate the officer was traveling at a high speed, reportedly 74 mph in a 25-mph zone, with emergency lights activated. Kandula sustained severe injuries and died at the scene.

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Indian Student Jaahnavi Kandula's death: Seattle to pay Rs 262 crore in settlement - 2

King County prosecutors decided not to file felony charges against Officer Kevin Dave. Their decision was based on the inability to prove that Dave deliberately disregarded safety when the collision occurred.

Indian Student Jaahnavi Kandula's death: Seattle to pay Rs 262 crore in settlement - 3

"Jaahnavi Kandula's death was heartbreaking, and the city hopes this financial settlement brings some sense of closure to the Kandula family." - City Attorney Erika Evans

Seattle City Attorney Erika Evans confirmed the settlement, describing Kandula's death as deeply tragic and expressing hope that the compensation would offer some relief to her grieving family. Attorneys for the Kandula family did not immediately provide a comment. The parties officially filed a notice of settlement in King County Superior Court.

Indian Student Jaahnavi Kandula's death: Seattle to pay Rs 262 crore in settlement - 4

Contributing Factors to Public Outrage

The case drew considerable attention beyond the initial collision due to body-camera footage that emerged later. Officer Daniel Auderer, who responded to the scene, was heard making insensitive remarks about Kandula's death. He was recorded joking about the incident, stating that Kandula's life had "limited value" and that Seattle should "just write a check" for a small sum, referencing $11,000.

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  • Officer Auderer's remarks were reportedly intended to criticize how legal proceedings might unfold.

  • These comments ignited widespread protests and contributed to increased calls for police reform.

  • Officer Auderer was subsequently fired from the Seattle Police Department for violating department policies.

Details of the Settlement

The settlement amount is $29 million USD, which converts to approximately Rs 262 crore. This figure represents one of the larger settlements in the United States involving police-related wrongful death cases, particularly concerning an international student.

Settlement Amount (USD)Settlement Amount (INR)Parties Involved
$29,000,000₹262 Crore (approx.)City of Seattle and Kandula Family

Officer Kevin Dave was cited for negligent driving and ordered to pay a $5,000 fine. Reports also indicate he was fired for violating multiple department policies, including failing to adjust his emergency response to the prevailing situation. However, he has since filed a wrongful termination lawsuit.

Broader Implications

Kandula's death and the subsequent settlement have amplified discussions around police accountability, speed limits for emergency vehicles, and the treatment of international students. Advocacy groups, including the Indian American Community Services, have used the incident to push for broader police reforms and reviews of departmental policies. The settlement signifies a financial acknowledgment of the tragedy and may influence how similar cases are handled in the future.

Sources

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why did Seattle pay $29 million?
The city paid this amount to the family of Jaahnavi Kandula, an Indian student who died after being hit by a police car. This is a settlement to help her family.
Q: How did Jaahnavi Kandula die?
She died in January 2023 after a police car, driven by Officer Kevin Dave at a high speed, hit her while she was crossing the street.
Q: Were there other issues in the case?
Yes, another officer, Daniel Auderer, made insensitive remarks about the value of her life, which caused more public upset and led to his firing.
Q: What is the total amount in Indian Rupees?
The $29 million settlement is about 262 crore Indian Rupees.