The city of Seattle, Washington, has agreed to a $29 million (about ₹262 crore) settlement with the family of Jaahnavi Kandula, a 23-year-old Indian student who was fatally struck by a speeding police officer while crossing a street in 2023.
In a statement, City Attorney Erika Evans called her death “heartbreaking” and expressed hope that the settlement would offer the family some closure, adding that Jaahnavi’s life deeply mattered to her loved ones and the community.
She was hit by Officer Kevin Dave, who was allegedly driving at 119 kmph in a 40 kmph zone while responding to a call. Her death triggered widespread outrage, especially after bodycam footage revealed Officer Daniel Auderer making insensitive remarks. Auderer was dismissed and later sued for wrongful termination, while Dave was fired and fined $5,000 but faced no criminal charges. About $20 million of the $29 million settlement will be paid through the city’s insurance.
