Actress Kaylee Hottle dies in Maryland car crash

Kaylee Hottle, an 18‑year‑old deaf actress who played Jia in "Godzilla vs. Kong" and its sequel "Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire," was killed in a car accident in Frederick County, Maryland, USA. The crash involved a 19‑year‑old driver and two other passengers; authorities said excessive speed likely contributed and the investigation is ongoing.

Her father, Joshua Hottle, announced the tragedy in American Sign Language, and tributes poured in from the Texas School for the Deaf, Legendary Pictures, and co‑star Millie Bobby Brown, who posted an Instagram tribute. The incident was reported by media outlets in Spanish and German, confirming the same details of the accident and Hottle's early career.

Legendary Pictures issued a statement: "We are devastated by the tragic loss of Kaylee Hottle. Through her unforgettable performance, Kaylee brought heart, humanity and light to the Monsterverse."