Family of Indian Student Killed by US Police Officer Awarded Rs 265 Crore Settlement

Seattle to Pay Rs 265 Crore to Family of Indian Student Jaahnavi Kandula Killed in Police Crash

The city of Seattle has agreed to pay Rs 265 crore (USD 29 million) to the family of Jaahnavi Kandula, the 23-year-old Indian graduate student who was fatally struck by a speeding police vehicle in 2023 — a settlement that brings partial closure to a case that drew global attention and diplomatic concern.

Kandula was hit by Officer Kevin Dave while crossing a street in Seattle. Investigators said Dave was driving at speeds reaching 119 kmph in a 40-kmph zone as he responded to a drug overdose call. Authorities stated that the patrol vehicle’s emergency lights were activated and the siren was used at intersections at the time of the collision.

Kandula, who was pursuing a master’s degree in information systems at Northeastern University’s Seattle campus, died from her injuries.

“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 said in a statement. “Her life mattered — to her family, her friends and to our community.”

The settlement notice was filed last week in King County Superior Court. Approximately USD 20 million of the payout is expected to be covered by the city’s insurance. Lawyers representing Kandula’s family did not immediately comment.

Outrage Over Bodycam Remarks

The case sparked widespread protests after body camera footage surfaced showing another officer, Daniel Auderer, laughing and making remarks suggesting Kandula’s life had “limited value” and that the city should “just write a check.”

The comments triggered diplomatic concern from India and led to internal and civilian oversight investigations. Seattle’s police oversight body concluded that the remarks damaged public trust and the department’s reputation.

Auderer was subsequently dismissed and has since filed a lawsuit alleging wrongful termination, claiming his comments were meant as criticism of how authorities might handle the case.

Officer Kevin Dave was also fired. He was cited for negligent driving and fined USD 5,000. However, King County prosecutors declined to file felony charges, stating they could not prove he acted with criminal intent or conscious disregard for safety.

The settlement marks a significant financial resolution in a case that raised questions about police accountability and public trust in the United States.