Driver pleads not guilty to charges she struck an Appleton police officer

Katrina Kitzman faces multiple counts including recklessly endangering safety and hit-and-run with injury

Published on Feb. 9, 2026

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A 21-year-old motorist accused of striking an Appleton police officer with her vehicle while having a blood alcohol level more than twice the legal limit has pleaded not guilty to multiple charges, including recklessly endangering safety and hit-and-run involving injury.

Why it matters

This incident raises concerns about public safety and the dangers of drunk driving, especially when it involves an attack on law enforcement officers who were responding to a disturbance call. The case also highlights the challenges police face in dealing with impaired and reckless drivers who put lives at risk.

The details

According to the criminal complaint, Katrina Kitzman, 21, was involved in a disturbance in a church parking lot on November 15. When police arrived, Kitzman got into a vehicle and quickly accelerated, squealing the tires and driving at a high rate of speed back towards the group of people. An officer drew his gun and commanded Kitzman to stop, but she made a sharp left turn towards three other officers, striking one of them, Officer Allen, and causing injuries to his ankles, feet and legs. Kitzman then led police on a high-speed chase reaching 75 mph in a 25 mph zone before being stopped. A preliminary breath test showed Kitzman had a blood alcohol content of .218, more than twice the legal limit for driving.

  • On November 15, the incident occurred in a church parking lot in Appleton.
  • On February 9, 2026, Kitzman pleaded not guilty to the charges.
  • Kitzman is scheduled to return to court on May 6, 2026 for a pre-trial conference.

The players

Katrina Kitzman

A 21-year-old motorist accused of striking an Appleton police officer with her vehicle while having a blood alcohol level more than twice the legal limit.

Officer Allen

An Appleton police officer who was struck by Kitzman's vehicle and suffered injuries to his ankles, feet and legs.

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What’s next

The judge will decide on May 6 whether to allow Kitzman out on bail before her trial.

The takeaway

This case highlights the serious public safety risks posed by drunk drivers, especially when they target law enforcement officers responding to disturbances. It underscores the need for strict enforcement and consequences to deter such reckless and dangerous behavior that can lead to injuries and loss of life.