Seattle Cop Who Struck And Killed Jaahnavi Kandula With Patrol Car Fired

India-West News Desk

SEATTLE, WA – Interim Seattle Police Chief Sue Rahr announced on January 6 that she has terminated Officer Kevin Dave, who struck and killed 23-year-old Jaahnavi Kandula in January 2023 while speeding in his patrol car. Kandula, a Northeastern University graduate student from India, was crossing a South Lake Union intersection when the collision occurred.

Rahr’s decision follows a Seattle Office of Police Accountability investigation, which found that Dave violated four departmental policies, including failing to use emergency lights during an emergency response and neglecting his duty to operate his vehicle safely.

“I believe the officer did not intend to hurt anyone that night and that he was trying to get to a possible overdose victim as quickly as possible,” Rahr wrote in an email to department staff. “However, I cannot accept the tragic consequences of his dangerous driving. His positive intent does not mitigate the poor decision that caused the loss of a human life and brought discredit to the Seattle Police Department.”

The crash occurred as Dave drove at speeds of up to 74 mph in a 25-mph zone. Kandula had the right of way at the Dexter Avenue North and Thomas Street crosswalk. Dave braked for less than a second before striking Kandula, who was thrown nearly 140 feet, according to the police investigation.

In February 2024, King County prosecutors declined to file criminal charges against Dave, citing a lack of evidence of impairment or reckless driving. However, the Seattle City Attorney’s Office issued him a $5,000 citation in March for second-degree negligent driving. After initially contesting the ticket, Dave agreed in December to pay the fine, complete an eight-hour traffic safety course, and perform 40 hours of community service by September 2025.

Kandula’s death garnered international attention after a recording surfaced in September 2023 of Officer Daniel Auderer, vice president of the Seattle Police Officers Guild, mocking and minimizing her death. Auderer was heard laughing and describing Kandula as having “limited value,” suggesting the city settle her case for $11,000. Auderer was fired in July 2024 for his remarks.

In the wake of the tragedy, Kandula’s family filed a wrongful-death lawsuit against the city and Dave in King County Superior Court. The suit alleges Kandula endured emotional distress, pain, and suffering before succumbing to her injuries. The family is seeking $110 million in damages, plus $11,000, referencing Auderer’s comment. The case is set for trial in September 2025.