Family of Jaahnavi Kandula, Who Was Killed by US Cop, Gets Rs.262 Cr Settlement
Seattle has agreed to a $29 million settlement with Jaahnavi Kandula’s family after her death in a 2023 police crash, but her family says no compensation can replace their loss.
The death of 23-year-old Indian student Jaahnavi Kandula in the United States had shocked both India and America. She was pursuing her Master’s degree when she was hit by a speeding police vehicle from the Seattle Police Department on 23rd January 2023 in Seattle.
The case became more controversial after body-camera audio revealed that Officer Daniel Auderer laughed while discussing the crash involving Officer Kevin Dave and said Jaahnavi’s life had “limited value,” suggesting the city could simply pay about $11,000. The comment caused anger in both countries, with many calling it insensitive and demanding strict action.
Following public outrage, Auderer was first moved to an administrative role and later fired after an internal inquiry. He claimed his remarks were taken out of context, but the department said the damage caused was serious and unacceptable.
Jaahnavi’s parents filed a wrongful death case in a US court, seeking accountability. In February 2024, Prosecuting Attorney Leesa Manion said there was not enough evidence to file criminal charges against Dave. However, he was fined $5,000 for careless driving and removed from active duty. In January 2025, after further review found he had violated multiple department policies, he was also fired.
After long negotiations, the Seattle city government agreed to pay a settlement of $29 million (around ?262 crore) to Jaahnavi’s family. City Attorney Erika Evans said the city hoped the compensation would bring some closure to the family and stated that Jaahnavi’s life mattered to the community.
Out of the total amount, $20 million will be paid by the city’s insurance company, while $9 million will come directly from city funds. This is one of the largest settlements paid to the family of an Indian national killed in the US.
In a tragic turn, Jaahnavi’s father, who was a police constable in India, passed away due to a heart attack just two days before the settlement was announced. Family members said the emotional stress of losing his daughter deeply affected him.
Jaahnavi’s mother said that no amount of money can replace her daughter. She expressed disappointment that the officers did not face stronger punishment. Members of the South Asian community in Seattle had supported the family throughout the legal fight.
Meanwhile, Northeastern University, where Jaahnavi was studying, honoured her by awarding a posthumous Master’s degree in recognition of her academic efforts and contribution to the community.
Even after the settlement, many believe that no financial compensation can truly make up for the loss of a young life with a bright future.
