Seattle, WA — Seattle Police Department (SPD) officer Kevin Dave, who fatally struck college student Jaahnavi Kandula death in January 2023, has been terminated from his position following an extensive investigation by the Seattle Office of Police Accountability (OPA).
Fatal Incident and Investigation
On January 23, 2023, Officer Kevin Dave was responding to a 911 call regarding a potential overdose when he drove at 74 mph in a 25 mph zone along Dexter Avenue. Tragically, he collided with Jaahnavi Kandula, a 23-year-old Northeastern University graduate student, who had the right of way. The impact, which occurred at 63 mph after Dave attempted to slow down, resulted in fatal injuries to Kandula.
Dashcam footage revealed that while Dave activated his emergency lights, his siren was not in continuous use; he “chirped” it at the intersection before the collision. The OPA investigation concluded that Dave violated multiple SPD policies, including those related to emergency vehicle operations and safe driving practices:
- 5.001 – Standards and Duties
- 13.030 – Emergency Vehicle Operations (Sections 3, 4, and 5)
Chief’s Statement on the Termination
Interim SPD Chief Sue Rahr addressed the decision in an email to department staff:
“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. 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.”
Legal and Disciplinary Actions
The King County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office declined to pursue criminal charges, citing insufficient evidence under Washington state law to prove criminal intent. However, the Seattle City Attorney issued a $5,000 civil traffic infraction against Dave in March 2024. Court records indicate that this fine accrued additional penalties due to late payment, raising the total to $5,052.
In September 2024, Kandula’s family filed a wrongful death lawsuit against the City of Seattle and Officer Dave, citing negligence and assault.
Public Backlash and Officer Auderer Controversy
The case drew widespread outrage when body-worn camera footage captured derogatory remarks by Officer Daniel Auderer, who laughed about Kandula’s death and suggested her life had “limited value.” Auderer was also terminated from SPD in July 2024 following public backlash.
About Jaahnavi Kandula
Kandula, a bright and ambitious student from India, was pursuing her master’s degree at Northeastern University’s Seattle campus. Her death has sparked ongoing protests, with community groups demanding justice and accountability from city officials.
Calls for Accountability
Advocates, including the Seattle Alliance Against Racist and Political Repression, continue to call for systemic reforms in SPD and justice for Kandula’s family. The case remains a pivotal moment in ongoing discussions about police accountability and public safety in Seattle.
For more details about the Seattle Police Department’s policies or updates on this case, visit the Seattle Police Department’s Official Website.