Seattle, USA – In a major legal resolution to a high-profile wrongful death case, the city of Seattle has agreed to pay $29 million (around ₹262 crore) to the family of 23-year-old Indian student Jaahnavi Kandula, who was tragically killed by a speeding police vehicle in 2023
What Happened to Jaahnavi Kandula? Tragic Details of the 2023 Incident
Jaahnavi Kandula, originally from Andhra Pradesh, India, was pursuing a master’s degree in Information Systems at Northeastern University’s Seattle campus when the accident occurred.
On January 23, 2023, as she crossed a street in a marked crosswalk near the South Lake Union area, her life was cut short when she was struck by a police patrol car driven by Officer Kevin Dave.
Official records show the officer was traveling at about 74 mph (119 km/h) in a 25 mph (40 km/h) zone while responding to a reported drug overdose call with sirens and emergency lights intermittently engaged.
The force of the collision was so severe that Kandula was thrown over 100 feet (more than 30 meters), and she later died from her injuries at a medical centre.
Why the Case Made Headlines: Outrage Over Police Conduct
The case drew massive attention not only because of the tragic loss of a young student but also due to disturbing body-camera audio from another officer, Daniel Auderer, related to the incident. In that footage, Auderer was recorded laughing about Kandula’s death and saying her life had “limited value” and that the city should “just write a check.”
These remarks sparked widespread protests in Seattle and condemnation across India, including calls by Indian diplomats for a full inquiry.
The civilian oversight board in Seattle later concluded that Auderer’s comments damaged public trust and the police department’s reputation. He was subsequently fired from the force but has filed his own lawsuit alleging wrongful termination.
Timeline: Key Dates in Jaahnavi Kandula Case Till Feb 2026
- Jan 23, 2023: Crash happens. Jaahnavi, 23, killed instantly.
- Sep 2023: Auderer's mocking audio leaks, fires outrage.
- Feb 2024: No criminal charges for Dave; family heartbroken.
- 2024: Wrongful death suit filed for $110 million.
- Late 2025: Court talks heat up; settlement whispers start.
- Feb 6, 2026: Settlement papers filed in court.
- Feb 11, 2026: Official announcement—$29M (Rs 262 Cr) deal.
- Feb 12, 2026: No new family comments; story trends in India.
No January 2026 updates popped up, but the February push shows fast final talks. PubliCola reported it first locally
Legal Action and Settlement: What Led to $29M
Kandula’s family filed a $110 million wrongful death lawsuit in 2024 against the city of Seattle and the officer who struck her.
After months of negotiation, mediation, and court filings, both sides reached a settlement that resolves the civil case without a full trial. Approximately $20 million of the payment is expected to be covered by the city’s insurance.
The agreement reflects the enormous emotional and financial impact of her death, and while the settlement does not equate to an admission of criminal liability, it offers monetary compensation for grief, loss, and legal costs.
Criminal Charges and Police Accountability
Although the family pursued civil action, no felony criminal charges were filed against Officer Dave by King County prosecutors, who said they could not prove that the officer intentionally disregarded safety.
Dave was cited for second-degree negligent driving and fined $5,000. He was later terminated from the Seattle Police Department.
The handling of the case — especially the lack of criminal charges — has been criticized by community groups and advocacy organisations as a failure of police accountability.
🚨 Seattle City Administration agrees to pay $29 million (~₹241 crore) to the family of Indian student Jaahnavi Kandula, who was killed after being struck by a speeding Seattle police vehicle. 🇺🇸🇮🇳 pic.twitter.com/eog5n66dmE
— Gems (@gemsofbabus_) February 12, 2026
Why Rs 262 Crore Matters: Biggest Police Settlement Ever?
This payout dwarfs others. In 2022, a similar case got $12 million. Jaahnavi's is top for pedestrian-police crashes. It sends a message: Cities pay big for cop errors.
For her family in India, it's life-changing. Rs 262 crore could fund schools, hospitals, or memorials. But Theja once said no amount fixes losing a daughter. They plan to honor her memory quietly.
Experts say it pushes police reform. Seattle now reviews high-speed rules. Other cities watch closely.
Indian Students in US: Rising Risks and Safety Tips
Jaahnavi wasn't alone. Over 300,000 Indian students study in America yearly. Car crashes kill dozens. In 2025, five more died in accidents.
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