SPD Fires Officer Who Struck and Killed Pedestrian Jaahnavi Kandula Two Years Ago

Seattle's interim Police Chief Sue Rahr has terminated officer Kevin Dave, who was responsible for the death of 23-year-old Jaahnavi Kandula in January 2023. This decision follows an investigation by the Office of Police Accountability, which found that Dave violated four critical SPD policies, including those related to safe driving and emergency response. Rahr acknowledged that some may disagree with her decision, noting that Dave's intention was to respond to a possible overdose victim. However, she maintained that his reckless driving led to a tragic loss of life and disrepute for the police department. The details surrounding the incident further fueled public outrage, especially after it was revealed that the person in distress was actually lucid and not in immediate danger.

Additionally, Dave's checkered employment history raised serious concerns, given that he was previously fired from the Tucson Police Department for similar issues. This incident also highlights the broader implications of police accountability, with Kandula's family filing a lawsuit against the city for $110 million, referencing a police union member's callous remarks about her death. This case underscores the urgent need for reforms in emergency vehicle operations and accountability measures within police departments.