PTC Web Desk: Actress Kaylee Hottle, who won the hearts of audiences with her performance as Jia in Godzilla vs. Kong, has died in a tragic road accident in the United States. She was 18 years old.

Kaylee, who was deaf, became widely known for portraying the young girl who shared a unique bond with King Kong through sign language. Her performance in the MonsterVerse films earned appreciation from fans around the world.

Also Read | Sonam Wangchuk protest gains global support as demonstrations held in New York, London and Dublin

Accident took place in Maryland

According to authorities, the accident happened around 2.52 am on Windsor Road in Ijamsville, Maryland. Officials said a 19-year-old man was driving a Honda Accord when the vehicle reportedly veered off the road and crashed into a culvert. Investigators believe the car may have been travelling at a high speed before the crash.

The driver suffered injuries that were not considered life-threatening and was taken to a nearby hospital. Kaylee, who was travelling as a passenger, was also rushed to the hospital, where doctors later declared her dead.

Death confirmed by family and school

The heartbreaking news was first shared by Kaylee's father, Joshua Hottle, during a Facebook Live session. It was later confirmed by the Texas School for the Deaf in Austin, where she was a student.

In a statement shared on Instagram, the school expressed deep sorrow over her passing and extended condolences to her family, friends and classmates.

The school also requested people to respect the family's privacy and avoid speculation about the circumstances surrounding the accident while the community mourns the loss.

A promising career cut short

Born in 2007, Kaylee Hottle began her career by appearing in advertisements. She caught the attention of renowned casting director Sarah Halley Finn after featuring in a commercial for the Convo video relay service app.

That opportunity led to her breakthrough role as Jia in Godzilla vs. Kong (2021). She later reprised the character in Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire (2024).

In a 2024 interview, Kaylee shared that the filmmakers believed she was the perfect choice for the role. She credited the film's director and her parents for helping her understand each scene and bring the character to life.

Apart from the Godzilla franchise, Kaylee also appeared in a small role in the Prime Video series Magnum P.I.