India has requested a review of the decision made by the King County Prosecutor's Office, which opted not to pursue criminal charges against the Seattle police officer involved in the tragic incident where Indian student Jaahnavi Kandula was struck by a police vehicle while responding to an overdose call.
In response to this development, the Indian consulate in Seattle has been actively engaged in maintaining regular communication with Kandula's family members, assuring them of comprehensive support in the pursuit of justice.
Furthermore, the Consulate has diligently raised the matter with local authorities, including the Seattle Police, advocating for appropriate remedies. Subsequently, the case has been referred to the Seattle City Attorney's office for a thorough review.
Expressing a steadfast commitment to the cause, the Consulate emphasized its eagerness to see the administrative investigation by the Seattle Police reach its conclusion, underscoring its unwavering vigilance over the proceedings.
Earlier this week, the King County Prosecutor's Office announced its decision not to press charges against Officer Kevin Dave, citing insufficient evidence under Washington State law to substantiate a criminal case beyond a reasonable doubt.
The tragic incident involving Kandula occurred on January 23, 2023, when she was struck by Officer Dave's police vehicle while crossing a street in Seattle. The officer was en route to a drug overdose call, traveling at approximately 120 mph at the time of the collision.
The impact of the accident resulted in the untimely death of the 23-year-old student from Andhra Pradesh, who was thrown approximately 100 feet, succumbing to her injuries on the spot.
Following the accident, disturbing bodycam footage circulated widely, capturing another police officer, Daniel Auderer, callously dismissing the severity of the crash and making insensitive remarks about Kandula's value.
The prosecutor's office condemned Auderer's comments as "appalling and deeply troubling," highlighting the egregious nature of his behavior in the aftermath of the tragic incident.
