The family of Jaahnavi Kandula, a 23-year-old Indian student, recently reached a $29 million settlement with the city of Seattle, NYPost reported on 12/2.

Kandula, who was pursuing a master's degree in information systems, was fatally struck by Seattle city police officer Kevin Dave on 23/1/2023. Officer Dave was driving at a speed of 120 km/h on his way to a drug crime scene, with his emergency lights activated and siren in use at intersections.

A temporary memorial was erected for Kandula near the intersection where she was hit. *NYPost*

"Jaahnavi Kandula's death is a heartbreaking loss, and the city hopes this financial compensation will offer some solace to the Kandula family," the city attorney stated.

Kandula's death sparked widespread protests, particularly after an audio recording from another officer's body-worn camera was released. In the recording, the officer was heard laughing and suggesting Kandula's life "had limited value" and the city "would just write a check," followed by loud laughter.

Diplomats from India called for an investigation into the incident. The city's civilian oversight agency concluded that the officer's comments in the video damaged the police department's reputation and undermined public trust.

The officer who made the controversial comments was subsequently fired and has since sued the city for wrongful termination. He claimed his remarks were intended to criticize how lawyers might respond to the death.

The police department also fired Officer Dave, the driver involved in the accident, charging him with reckless driving and fining him $5,000. However, King County prosecutors declined to pursue criminal charges against him, stating they could not prove he intentionally disregarded safety when he struck Kandula.

By Hai Thu (According to NYPost, Times of India, Police 1)