Pop icon Britney Spears has been arrested in California on suspicion of driving under the influence of alcohol and drugs.

The incident occurred on Wednesday evening when California Highway Patrol (CHP) officers detained her around 9:30 PM local time.

Authorities report that Spears was driving her BMW erratically at high speed on US-101 southbound.

She displayed signs of impairment and completed a series of field sobriety tests before being taken into custody. Her car was subsequently impounded.

A spokesperson for Spears told the media: “This was an unfortunate incident that is completely inexcusable.

Britney is committed to taking the right steps, complying with the law, and receiving the support she needs.”

The representative emphasized that Spears’ family support is central to her recovery, noting: “Her loved ones are working on a plan to ensure her well-being and success during this challenging time.

She will be spending time with her children while taking necessary steps toward recovery.”

Spears was released from jail in the early hours of Thursday morning and is scheduled to appear at Ventura County Superior Court on May 4.

Although briefly taken to a medical facility for blood tests, she was not admitted to a hospital. CHP continues to investigate the incident, with chemical test results still pending.

The pop star, known for hits like “Baby One More Time,” “Toxic,” “Gimme More,” and “Stronger,” deleted her Instagram account as news of the arrest spread.

Spears previously announced in January 2024 that she would not return to the music industry.

Her last release was a 2022 duet with Elton John, although she had hinted at potential performances in the UK and Australia.

For 13 years until 2021, Spears was under a conservatorship, which controlled her finances and personal life.

Her memoir, The Woman in Me (2023), explored her career and struggles under that legal arrangement.