Nearly a year after the tragic death of Jaahnavi Kandula, an Indian graduate student, the Seattle police officer involved in the accident has been terminated. Interim Police Chief Sue Rahr announced the dismissal of Kevin Dave following an investigation by the Seattle Office of Police Accountability. The investigation concluded that Dave violated multiple department policies, including safe operation of a patrol vehicle.

The incident occurred in January 2023 while Dave was responding to an overdose call. Chief Rahr acknowledged Dave's intention to provide swift aid but emphasized the unacceptable nature of his driving. Traveling at speeds reported up to 74 mph in a 25 mph zone, Dave's vehicle struck and killed Kandula. While King County prosecutors declined felony charges due to insufficient evidence of conscious disregard for safety, the city attorney issued a $5,000 citation for negligent driving. Dave ultimately agreed to pay the fine, complete a traffic safety course, and perform community service.

This incident sparked international outrage, fueled further by insensitive remarks made by another officer, Daniel Auderer, captured on bodycam footage. Auderer, subsequently fired, was heard minimizing the value of Kandula's life. Kandula's family has filed a wrongful-death lawsuit against both Dave and the city, seeking substantial damages. The trial is slated for September. This case underscores the complex issues surrounding emergency response protocols and officer accountability.