New Delhi, January 7
Seattle police officer Kevin Dave who had allegedly killed Indian student Jaanhnvi Kandula has been dismissed from services, the department announced.
Dave had hit Kandula with his patrol vehicle struck her leading to her tragic death in January 2023. Kandula was a 23-year-old native from Andhra Pradeshwho was studying in Seattle.
He was driving at more than 119 km/h on the way to respond to a report of a drug overdose.
The Seattle police department stated that it was not an intentional act, but emphasised that it cannot overlook the tragic consequences of dangerous driving.
Seattle interim police chief Sue Rahr told media, “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,"
Kandula’s death sparked outrage, particularly after a recording from another officer body camera surfaced, in which Dave was found laughing and alleged that her life had 'limited value". He was also heard saying city should “just write a check”. India had sought a proper investigation into the incident. The officer, Daniel Auderer, was fired earlier.
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