Authorities have released additional information about the tragic car crash that claimed the life of actress Kaylee Hottle, who was widely recognized for portraying Jia in Godzilla vs. Kong and Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire.

The fatal accident occurred early Tuesday morning on Windsor Road in Ijamsville, Maryland. According to the Frederick County Sheriff’s Office, deputies and emergency responders were dispatched to the scene at approximately 2:52 a.m. after receiving reports of a single-vehicle crash.

A preliminary investigation found that a 19-year-old man from Frederick was driving a 1995 Honda Accord when the vehicle left the roadway and struck a culvert. Investigators believe excessive speed may have played a role in the collision.

Kaylee Hottle was one of two passengers riding in the vehicle. She was rushed to a nearby trauma center but later died from her injuries. The second passenger was not seriously hurt and declined medical treatment at the scene. The driver was transported to a local hospital with injuries that authorities said are not considered life-threatening.

Earlier, Hottle’s father, Joshua Hottle, confirmed her death, saying he learned she had been involved in a serious crash and that she passed away while being transported to the hospital.

The Frederick County Sheriff’s Office Traffic Unit continues to investigate the crash. Officials are asking anyone with information about the incident to contact investigators.

Hottle, who was deaf, became a rising star in Hollywood after making her feature film debut in 2021’s Godzilla vs. Kong. She earned praise for her portrayal of Jia, a young orphan who develops a unique bond with Kong through American Sign Language. The character quickly became a fan favorite and returned in 2024’s Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire.

Before her breakout film role, Hottle first appeared on screen in a 2017 commercial promoting Convo, an American Sign Language translation app. Her performances helped increase representation for deaf actors in mainstream films and inspired audiences around the world.

As the investigation continues, fans and colleagues are remembering Hottle for her talent, warmth, and the lasting impact she made despite her young age.