US: Pop icon Britney Spears arrested in California on suspicion of driving under the influence

The singer was detained by the California Highway Patrol at around 21:30 local time (05:30 GMT) on Wednesday.

A representative for Spears told the BBC: “This was an unfortunate incident that is completely inexcusable.”

Authorities said Spears was reported for driving her BMW “erratically at a high rate of speed” on a motorway.

According to the highway patrol, she “showed signs of impairment” and agreed to a series of field sobriety tests after being pulled over.

Media reports said she was released from jail on Thursday and is scheduled to appear at the Ventura County Superior Court on May 4.

Spears’ representative told the BBC: “Britney is going to take the right steps and comply with the law, and hopefully this can be the first step in long-overdue change that needs to occur in her life.”

“Hopefully she can get the help and support she needs during this difficult time,” the representative added.

“Her boys will be spending time with her, and her loved ones are working on a plan to help set her up for success and wellbeing.”

It also appeared that Spears deleted her account on the social media platform Instagram after news of her arrest surfaced.

Spears is known for several chart-topping hits including ...Baby One More Time, Toxic, Everytime, Gimme More, Womanizer and Stronger.