A major development has taken place in the case of Telugu student Jaahnavi Kandula, who died in the United States after being hit by a speeding police vehicle. The city of Seattle has agreed to pay 29 million dollars in compensation, nearly ₹262 crore in Indian currency, to her family.
Seattle City Attorney Erica Evans confirmed the settlement, calling Jaahnavi’s death deeply tragic and expressing hope that the compensation would provide some relief to the grieving family. So far, there has been no official response from Jaahnavi’s family’s attorney. It is learnt that both sides moved court last week seeking approval of the settlement.
Jaahnavi, 23, was from Kurnool district in Andhra Pradesh. She went to the US in 2021 for higher studies and was pursuing her Master’s degree at Northeastern University in South Lake Union. On the night of January 23, 2023, she was crossing the road when a speeding police patrol vehicle hit her. She died on the spot due to severe injuries.
The officer involved, Kevin Dave, later sparked outrage after body camera footage revealed him making insensitive remarks about her death. His comments, suggesting her life had little value, triggered strong reactions both in India and the US. Following public criticism, he was removed from duty.
Reports at the time said the accident occurred in a 40 kmph zone, but the patrol vehicle was travelling at nearly 119 kmph when it struck Jaahnavi, throwing her nearly 100 feet. The incident drew diplomatic attention, with India raising concerns over the officer’s remarks.
The settlement now brings a legal closure to the civil case, though the emotional loss remains immeasurable for the family.
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