UM Students Confront Shuttle Driver Accused of DUI

Cell phone video captures students' confrontation with driver who allegedly drove under the influence on campus shuttle.

Published on Feb. 20, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Students on a University of Miami shuttle noticed the driver, Timothy Kowalewski, was driving erratically and appeared to be under the influence of alcohol. The students confronted Kowalewski, asking him to put the bus in park, and alerted the Coral Gables Police, who arrested Kowalewski on charges related to DUI and causing a crash with property damage.

Why it matters

This incident raises concerns about campus safety and the vetting process for shuttle drivers, as well as the broader issue of impaired driving and its risks to public safety.

The details

According to the cell phone video, Kowalewski was driving recklessly, running into trees, poles, and curbs, and making sudden U-turns on US-1 before the students convinced him to pull off the highway. The students said Kowalewski seemed unbothered after crashing into a palm tree during an illegal U-turn. When confronted, Kowalewski initially claimed the bus was in park, but a student corrected him, and the students then noticed a strong smell of alcohol on Kowalewski.

  • The incident occurred on Monday during the students' regular shuttle ride between the University of Miami's Virginia Key and Coral Gables campuses.

The players

Timothy Kowalewski

A 45-year-old shuttle driver who was arrested on charges related to DUI and causing a crash with property damage.

University of Miami

The university where the incident took place and where the shuttle service is provided for students.

Coral Gables Police Department

The law enforcement agency that responded to the incident and arrested the shuttle driver.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Please put the bus in park,”

— A student (wsvn.com)

“Did you have anything to drink? Because you smell like a lot of alcohol,”

— A student (wsvn.com)

“He was under the influence when he drove us to the campus,”

— A student (wsvn.com)

What’s next

The Coral Gables Police Department will continue its investigation, and the University of Miami has stated that the safety of the campus community remains their top priority.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the importance of thorough vetting and monitoring of shuttle drivers to ensure the safety of students and the broader campus community. It also underscores the need for continued vigilance and education around the dangers of impaired driving.