Woman Charged After Driving Jeep Into Country Club Lake

Marissa Leah Katz faces DUI and careless driving charges despite plans to fight the case.

Jan. 29, 2026 at 2:47pm

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A 45-year-old woman has been charged with driving under the influence and careless driving after allegedly driving her Jeep into a lake within the Woodfield Country Club in Boca Raton, Florida. Marissa Leah Katz reportedly had a blood alcohol content more than three times the legal limit when the incident occurred, but her attorney has filed a notice indicating she plans to fight the charges.

Why it matters

This case highlights the ongoing issue of drunk driving and the potential dangers it poses to both the driver and the public. While the details are still unfolding, it raises questions about substance abuse, public safety, and the legal process around DUI charges.

The details

According to the police report, witnesses say Katz's Jeep approached the intersection at a high rate of speed, failed to slow down, jumped the curb, and plunged into the lake within the Woodfield Country Club. Katz was observed exiting the partially submerged vehicle shortly after the crash. When officers made contact with her, they noted her eyes were red and glassy, and she emitted a strong odor of alcohol. Katz agreed to perform field sobriety exercises but reportedly struggled significantly. She was then arrested and taken to the police department for breath testing, where she allegedly provided samples registering .288 and .297 - more than three and a half times the legal limit of .08 in Florida.

  • The incident occurred on Sunday evening around 7 p.m.
  • Katz is scheduled to appear in court on February 6th.

The players

Marissa Leah Katz

A 45-year-old woman charged with driving under the influence and careless driving after allegedly driving her Jeep into a lake within the Woodfield Country Club in Boca Raton, Florida.

Woodfield Country Club

The private country club located in Boca Raton, Florida where the incident occurred.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in Boca Raton.”

— Robert Jenkins, Boca Raton resident (Boca News Now)

What’s next

A hearing is scheduled for February 6th, where the judge will decide whether to allow Katz out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights the ongoing issue of drunk driving and the potential dangers it poses to both the driver and the public. While the details are still unfolding, it raises questions about substance abuse, public safety, and the legal process around DUI charges in the Boca Raton community.