Rising Star Kaylee Hottle, 18, Tragically Dies in Maryland Car Crash
July 21, 2026
The Associated Press credits Rebecca Boonelarry Lage and notes WRAL News via NewsBreak as sources for the report.
Multiple sources and public statements confirm the event and responses from the film community.
The incident occurred in the early hours of a Tuesday morning, according to authorities.
CBS News notes related sections on Death, Atlanta, and Entertainment for context.
Law enforcement provided preliminary details; the family asked for privacy and for no speculation about the accident’s circumstances.
The New York Times reported the incident and context, corroborating details of the death.
USA TODAY has requested comment from Hottle’s representative as the investigation continues.
The report references a Frederick County Sheriff’s Office press release and statements from Hottle’s family and colleagues.
This is presented as developing news, with updates expected as more information becomes available.
Public tributes from colleagues on social media included posts from Brown and Hall, memorializing her impact.
A deaf 18-year-old actress, Kaylee Hottle, best known for her role as Jia in Godzilla vs. Kong and its sequel, died in a Maryland car crash, prompting tributes from friends, co-stars, and members of the deaf community.
Hottle had prior TV appearances, including Magnum P.I. in 2021, and was listed for an upcoming film What Doesn’t Kill Us, with a 2024 AP interview highlighting her early exposure to horror/monster genres and the support of her parents.
Summary based on 87 sources
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Sources

AP News • Jul 21, 2026
Kaylee Hottle, 'Godzilla' actor, dies at 18 | AP News
Gizmodo • Jul 21, 2026
Kaylee Hottle, ‘Godzilla vs. Kong’ Star, Dies at 18
The Times Of India • Jul 22, 2026
Kaylee Hottle passes away at 18: Co-star Millie Bobby Brown pays tribute; 'I'm so devastated to hear this'
Global News • Jul 21, 2026
‘Godzilla vs. Kong’ actor Kaylee Hottle dead at 18