Seattle Settles $29M in Jaahnavi Kandula Police Crash Case

The settlement aims to provide closure, but concerns over police accountability remain.

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

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The city of Seattle has reached a $29 million settlement with the family of Jaahnavi Kandula, a 23-year-old graduate student tragically struck and killed by a speeding police vehicle in January 2023. The case sparked national outrage, particularly after the release of body camera footage featuring an insensitive response from a police officer.

Why it matters

The Kandula case highlights the ongoing debate surrounding police conduct and accountability in the United States. It reflects a broader national conversation about the need for greater transparency, independent oversight, and systemic reform within law enforcement agencies.

The details

Jaahnavi Kandula was a promising student at Northeastern University's Seattle campus, pursuing a master's degree in Information Systems. She was struck and killed by Officer Kevin Dave, who was responding to a drug overdose call and traveling at 119 kph in a 40 kph zone, utilizing emergency lights and sirens at intersections. The impact threw Kandula 42 meters. The case garnered national attention and sparked widespread outrage, particularly after the release of body camera footage featuring Officer Daniel Auderer, then vice president of the Seattle Police Officers Guild, laughing and making insensitive remarks about Kandula's life having 'limited value,' suggesting the city simply 'write a check.'

  • In January 2023, Jaahnavi Kandula was struck and killed by a speeding police vehicle.
  • On February 12, 2026, the city of Seattle announced a $29 million settlement with Kandula's family.

The players

Jaahnavi Kandula

A 23-year-old graduate student at Northeastern University's Seattle campus, pursuing a master's degree in Information Systems.

Officer Kevin Dave

A Seattle police officer who struck and killed Kandula while responding to a drug overdose call, traveling at 119 kph in a 40 kph zone.

Officer Daniel Auderer

The vice president of the Seattle Police Officers Guild, who made insensitive remarks about Kandula's life in body camera footage.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.