Police body camera footage captures the erratic actions of a University of Miami shuttle driver moments before his arrest for allegedly operating the vehicle while intoxicated.

The Terrifying Ride

On February 16, approximately 15 students aboard a shuttle bound for the Rosenstiel School of Marine, Atmospheric and Earth Science campus endured a harrowing ordeal. Witnesses reported the driver, Timothy Kowalewski, 45, swerving across US Highway One, striking a tree, and then colliding with a car. Students promptly dialed 911, alerting dispatchers to the driver’s dangerous maneuvers.

“We were all scared as hell,” one student recounted to authorities. Another added, “It could have been so much worse. That crash could’ve happened on the bridge; we could’ve been in the water.”

Video from the scene shows passengers confronting Kowalewski, urging him to halt. “Why would you drive if you know you have students?” a passenger demanded. Kowalewski slurred, “No, I’m-I’m-I’m fine.” Another replied, “Sir, we understand, but you’re not fine. You crashed twice on this car ride.” Kowalewski responded in disbelief, “I did?”

Police Arrival and Driver’s Demeanor

Officers from the Coral Gables Police Department arrived near a gas station where the shuttle had stopped. Footage reveals Kowalewski with bloodshot eyes and heavily slurred speech. When asked if he was okay or experiencing a medical emergency, he shook his head and stumbled from the bus.

Kowalewski admitted to consuming alcohol earlier that day, stating, “I f***ing woke up this morning and decided … alcohol.” He claimed no recollection of the collisions, adding, “I don’t have any recollection of it… These kids have more answers than I do.”

Arrest and Charges

The driver refused field sobriety tests and a breathalyzer, leading to his arrest. Authorities charged him with one count of driving under the influence and two counts of damage to property or person. He was booked at Turner Guilford Knight Correctional Center but has since been released, per county records. No injuries occurred among the passengers.

University Response

The University of Miami issued a statement confirming the Coral Gables Police Department’s ongoing investigation. “The safety of our students, faculty, staff, and the broader University community remains our top priority,” it read. Details of the university’s internal probe into the driver remain unavailable.