University of Miami Shuttle Driver Arrested for DUI on the Job

Students say driver smelled of alcohol and was swerving before crashing into a palm tree

Published on Feb. 20, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A University of Miami shuttle bus driver was arrested on DUI charges on Monday afternoon after students reported he was swerving, smelled of alcohol, and crashed into a palm tree while transporting over a dozen students. The driver, identified as 45-year-old Timothy Kowalewski, refused a field sobriety test and breath test following his arrest.

Why it matters

This incident raises serious concerns about campus safety and the university's vetting process for shuttle drivers. Students who rely on the shuttle service to get to and from classes are now hesitant to use it, fearing for their wellbeing.

The details

According to students on the shuttle, the driver appeared disoriented, had slurred speech, and they could smell alcohol on his breath. Video shows students questioning the driver about whether he had been drinking before they contacted authorities. Police arrested Kowalewski on charges of DUI, damage to property, and refusal to test.

  • The incident occurred on Monday afternoon, February 18, 2026.
  • Kowalewski was arrested following the crash.

The players

Timothy Kowalewski

A 45-year-old shuttle bus driver for the University of Miami who was arrested on DUI charges after students reported he was swerving, smelled of alcohol, and crashed into a palm tree while transporting over a dozen students.

Maya Dejean

A freshman studying marine biology at the University of Miami who was on the shuttle bus during the incident. Dejean said the driver appeared disoriented and she is now hesitant to use the shuttle service again.

University of Miami

The university that operates the shuttle bus service and is investigating the incident, stating that the safety of students, faculty, and staff remains their top priority.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Did you have anything to drink? You just smell like a lot of alcohol.”

— Student

“He didn't really realize he was crashing into things. He wasn't really remembering things, didn't have a recollection of what he was doing.”

— Maya Dejean, Freshman, Marine Biology (cbsnews.com)

“We could hear his slurred speech. You could smell the alcohol coming off of his breath, and it was just very bad.”

— Maya Dejean, Freshman, Marine Biology (cbsnews.com)

What’s next

Police said Kowalewski refused a field sobriety test and a breath test at the police station following his arrest. The University of Miami stated the incident is under further investigation by the Coral Gables Police Department.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the need for stricter vetting and monitoring of shuttle drivers to ensure the safety of students, faculty, and staff who rely on campus transportation. The university must take immediate action to address this breach of trust and implement robust policies to prevent similar incidents in the future.