Seattle’s interim police chief announced on Monday the termination of an officer involved in the fatal collision that claimed the life of Indian graduate student Jaahnavi Kandula in 2023 while responding to an overdose emergency. Kandula’s tragic death sparked public outrage, particularly after disturbing footage emerged from another officer’s body-worn camera.
In the recording, Officer Daniel Auderer made disparaging remarks, laughing as he suggested Kandula’s life had “limited value” and that the city should simply “write a check.” This led to calls for investigation from Indian diplomats. A review by the city’s civilian oversight body concluded that Auderer’s comments severely tarnished the department’s reputation and eroded public trust, resulting in his eventual termination.
Interim Chief Sue Rahr informed staff via email that Officer Kevin Dave was fired after the Seattle Office of Police Accountability (OPA) found he had breached four department policies, including one regarding the safe operation of patrol vehicles. The SPD released a statement confirming Dave’s dismissal followed the completion of the OPA investigation, which awaited the conclusion of both criminal and civil cases.
This announcement comes almost a year after King County prosecutors opted not to pursue felony charges against Dave, citing a lack of evidence to demonstrate that he consciously ignored safety protocols during the incident that resulted in Kandula’s death.
Subsequently, the Seattle City Attorney’s Office issued Dave a $5,000 citation for negligent driving, noting that he was recorded driving at speeds of up to 74 mph in a 25 mph zone before colliding with Kandula. After initially contesting the citation, Dave has agreed to pay the fine, complete an eight-hour traffic safety course within a year, and fulfill 40 hours of community service by September 30, as stipulated in municipal court records.
