Shillong, September 17: Seattle Mayor Bruce Harrell has apologized for the tragic death of Jaahnavi Kandula, an Indian student who lost her life in a collision with a speeding police patrol car in January.
The incident, which sparked widespread outrage and criticism, was further exacerbated by the release of a video capturing insensitive remarks made by a police officer following the tragedy.
As per India Today, Mayor Harrell conveyed his apology during a closed meeting with leaders from the South Asian immigrant community in Seattle. Preeti Shridhar, an advocate within the Indian-American community who attended the meeting, reported that the mayor took full responsibility and expressed his deep regret for the incident, the release of the video, and the unacceptable words that were uttered. He emphasized the importance of respecting human life.
Jaahnavi Kandula, a 23-year-old master’s student at Northeastern University in Seattle, was struck by Officer Kevin Dave, who was driving at a speed exceeding 119 kilometers per hour in response to an overdose call. Bodycam footage released later revealed Officer Daniel Auderer laughing and making insensitive comments about the student’s tragic death.
In his defense, Auderer laughed at the absurdity of how such incidents were handled and how he had witnessed similar situations unfold.
The meeting between the South Asian immigrant community and Mayor Harrell, lasting for one and a half hours, brought together approximately 20 supporters at City Hall to address Kandula’s death and the subsequent handling of the case. During the discussion, attendees shared their concerns and called for accountability.
Community leaders noted that Mayor Harrell was attentive and displayed empathy throughout the conversation.
In addition to the meeting, over 100 members of the South Asian community organized a rally at the location where Kandula was struck and killed. Holding signs with messages such as “Jaahnavi had more value than SPD” and “Justice for Jaahnavi, jail killer cops,” the protesters demanded justice for the victim and advocated for reforms in police training and recruitment.