On December 17, former “The Voice” contestant Kata Hay-real name Kata Huddleston-was taken into custody in Osage County, Oklahoma, after Tennessee police issued a public appeal for her whereabouts following a deadly crash.
Arrest and Fugitive Charges
The Goodlettsville Police Department posted a notice on Facebook on December 16, including a photo of Hay and a statement that she had outstanding warrants for vehicular homicide in connection with a motor vehicle crash on Hollow Pike near I-65. The flyer added that authorities believed she might be enroute to Oklahoma, traveling with a white male and possibly towing a large camper. The next day, the department thanked tips that led to her arrest early that morning in Oklahoma, where she will be extradited back to Davidson County.
The flyer read: “She has outstanding warrants for vehicular homicide in connection with a motor vehicle crash on Hollow Pike near I-65,” and “We have reason to believe that she may be enroute to Oklahoma and traveling with a white male and quite possibly towing a large camper.” The police department’s social media post added: “as a direct result, she was arrested early this morning in Oklahoma, where she will be extradited back to Davidson County.”
Charges in Tennessee
In Davidson County, Hay faces multiple charges stemming from a December 10 incident. She is charged with a second offense DUI, two counts of leaving the scene of an accident with property damage exceeding $1,500, and possessing an open container of alcohol. According to filings viewed by E! News, she is scheduled to appear in court on February 2 at 8:30 a.m. local time.
Prior Legal History
Three years earlier, in 2022, Hay pleaded guilty to unlawful sexual contact with a minor in Sumner County. Court filings showed she received a six-month jail sentence, a mental health evaluation, and placement in an intensive outpatient program. During her testimony, she apologized, saying, “I wanna cause no more suffering for anyone,” and added, “I’m truly sorry.”
Background on “The Voice”
Hay first gained national attention in 2011 as a contestant on “The Voice,” where she was coached by Christina Aguilera. She was eliminated in the first week of the live playoffs, but the exposure helped launch her music career.
Current Status and Next Steps
Hay is currently held in Oklahoma for extradition. If extradited, she will face the charges listed in Davidson County. Her court appearance is set for February 2, and no further updates have been released. E! News has reached out for comment but has not yet received a response.
Extradition Process
The Oklahoma authorities are processing her extradition to Davidson County. The transfer is expected to occur before her scheduled court date, ensuring she faces the Tennessee charges in a timely manner.
Court Proceedings
The February 2 hearing will address the DUI, leaving the scene, and open container charges. The court will also consider any prior convictions in determining sentencing.
Public Reaction
The Goodlettsville community has expressed concern over the incident. Social media posts have called for accountability and highlighted the seriousness of vehicular homicide allegations.
Media Coverage
E! News has reported the arrest and provided updates on the legal status. The network has also documented the police appeal and the subsequent arrest.
Impact on Career
Hay’s arrest and legal troubles may affect her public image and future opportunities in the music industry. Fans and industry professionals have reacted with mixed emotions.
Legal Implications
The charges involve serious offenses, including vehicular homicide, DUI, and leaving the scene of an accident. These offenses carry significant penalties under Tennessee law.
Timeline Overview
- December 10: Incident in Davidson County.
- December 16: Police appeal posted on Facebook.
- December 17: Arrest in Oklahoma and extradition announcement.
- February 2: Scheduled court appearance.
Key Takeaways
- Kata Hay was arrested in Oklahoma on December 17 after a Tennessee police appeal.
- She faces DUI, leaving the scene, and open container charges from a December 10 incident.
- Hay has a prior conviction for unlawful sexual contact with a minor in 2022.
Authorities’ Statements
The Goodlettsville Police Department emphasized the seriousness of the vehicular homicide warrants and thanked the public for tips that led to the arrest.
Details of the Crash
The crash occurred on Hollow Pike near I-65, resulting in a fatality and leading to the outstanding warrants.
Legal Process in Oklahoma
Hay is held for extradition, with the process overseen by Oklahoma law enforcement to ensure compliance with Tennessee jurisdiction.
Possible Sentencing
If convicted, Hay could face the penalties associated with the DUI, leaving the scene, and open container offenses, in addition to any restitution for property damage.
Final Note
The case remains under active legal proceedings, with the next court date scheduled for February 2. Public and media attention continues as the situation develops.
