Godzilla actress dies in Maryland crash

American actress Kaylee Hottle, 18, who appeared in two films in the Godzilla franchise, died in a car crash in the U.S. state of Maryland overnight from Monday to Tuesday, authorities said, according to AFP.

The vehicle, driven by a 19-year-old man and carrying Hottle and another passenger, left the roadway and struck a fixed object, according to a statement from the Frederick County Sheriff's Office, CE Report quotes AGERPRES.

Law enforcement officers, who responded shortly before 3:00 a.m., believe that excessive speed contributed to the crash.

Kaylee Hottle was transported to a hospital, where she was pronounced dead, authorities said. The driver suffered injuries but is expected to recover, while the other passenger declined medical treatment.

Hottle, who was deaf, was best known for portraying Jia in Godzilla vs. Kong (2021) and Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire (2024), communicating through sign language.

She was nominated for a Saturn Award in 2024 for Best Performance by a Younger Actor or Actress.

Her parents responded to her death by posting videos in sign language on Facebook.

The Texas School for the Deaf, where Hottle was a student, described her passing on social media as "a tremendous loss."

"Our thoughts are with Kaylee's family, friends, classmates, and everyone who knew and loved her during this incredibly difficult time," the school said.

The school also urged the public to respect the family's privacy and refrain from sharing or speculating about the circumstances of the accident.

Photo: Wikipedia