Jaahnavi Kandula, a 23-year-old Indian student and Master’s student in Seattle from Andhra Pradesh, tragically lost her life after being hit by a speeding police vehicle on January 23. Despite the grim incident and subsequent legal battle, the officer driving the vehicle, Kevin Dave, was cleared of facing any criminal charges due to insufficient evidence. The officer was reportedly driving at 120 kmph, a factor that has brought upon considerable scrutiny.
Footage revealed by the Seattle Police showed officer Daniel Auderer, who was at the scene, making insensitive remarks about the crash and Ms. Kandula’s age, which led to his reassignment and a forthcoming disciplinary hearing. Prosecutors were unable to prove beyond a reasonable doubt that Officer Dave had shown ‘conscious disregard for others’ safety,’ a key element required by Washington State law to establish vehicular homicide.
The Community Police Commission responded with condolences and questioned the threshold for defining reckless driving with respect to officer’s speed during an emergency response. They advocate for policy changes to prioritize safety. International outrage was sparked, especially within the Indian-American community, with officials like Congresspeople Ro Khanna and Pramila Jayapal expressing disdain for Auderer’s comments and demanding justice. The Indian Consulate General also called for a thorough inquiry.
Despite the international attention and the community’s cries for justice, officer Kevin Dave remains free from criminal charges. Jaahnavi Kandula was struck and thrown 100 feet by the patrol vehicle, leading to her instant death. The severity of the incident has raised questions about police response protocols and the value placed on community safety during such emergencies.