The city of Seattle has agreed to a $29 million settlement (around ₹262 crore) with the family of Jaahnavi Kandula, a 23-year-old Indian graduate student who was killed in a 2023 police crash.
The Jaahnavi Kandula settlement brings financial closure to a case that sparked outrage in both the United States and India.
Kandula, who was pursuing a master’s degree in information systems at Northeastern University’s Seattle campus, was struck by a police vehicle while crossing a street. The Seattle police crash case quickly became a flashpoint after details emerged about the speed of the responding officer and later comments made by another officer.
What Happened That Night
Officer Kevin Dave was responding to a drug overdose call when the crash occurred. Investigators said Officer Kevin Dave was speeding, reaching speeds of up to 119 km/h in a 40-km/h zone. His emergency lights were on, and he reportedly used his siren at intersections.
Prosecutors later declined to file felony charges, stating they could not prove deliberate disregard for safety. However, the officer was fired, cited for negligent driving and fined $5,000.
Why the Case Drew Widespread Anger
Public anger intensified after body camera footage surfaced of another officer laughing and saying Kandula’s life had “limited value,” suggesting the city should “just write a check.”
The remarks led to internal investigation and disciplinary action. Officer Daniel Auderer, who made the comments, was later fired. He has since sued the city for wrongful termination, claiming his remarks were meant to criticise legal responses rather than the victim herself.
Diplomats from India also called for an investigation, as the case of the Indian student killed in Seattle gained international attention.
The Settlement Details
The agreement, filed in King County Superior Court, includes a $29 million settlement Seattle officials say is intended to bring some measure of closure to the family.
Seattle City Attorney Erika Evans said in a statement that Kandula’s life mattered deeply to her family, friends and community.
Roughly $20 million of the settlement amount is expected to be covered by the city’s insurance.
What This Means
While the financial settlement cannot undo the tragedy, it marks one of the larger payouts in a police-related crash case in recent years.
For many observers, the case highlighted broader concerns around emergency response speeds, police accountability and public trust.
The legal chapter may be closing with the Jaahnavi Kandula settlement, but the wider debate over policing standards and accountability is likely to continue.
