Physique digital camera footage captures the erratic actions of a College of Miami shuttle driver moments earlier than his arrest for driving below the affect. On February 16, Timothy Kowalewski, 45, allegedly swerved throughout US Freeway One, struck a tree, after which collided with a automotive whereas transporting roughly 15 college students towards the Rosenstiel College of Marine, Atmospheric and Earth Science campus.
The Chaotic Journey
College students on board alerted authorities by way of 911, describing a harrowing expertise. ‘We had been all scared as hell,’ one passenger recounted. One other added, ‘It might have been a lot worse. That crash might’ve occurred on the bridge; we might’ve been within the water.’
Video reveals passengers confronting Kowalewski earlier than police arrived. ‘Why would you drive if you recognize you might have college students?’ one demanded. Kowalewski slurred, ‘No, I am wonderful.’ A pupil replied, ‘Sir, we perceive, however you are not wonderful. You crashed twice on this experience.’ Kowalewski responded, ‘I did?’ No accidents occurred among the many passengers.
Police Bodycam Reveals Disturbing Conduct
Officers arriving on the scene close to a gasoline station noticed Kowalewski with bloodshot eyes and closely slurred speech. ‘Are you okay? Any medical emergency?’ an officer requested. Kowalewski shook his head, stumbled from the bus, and admitted to consuming alcohol earlier. ‘I awakened this morning and determined to have alcohol,’ he acknowledged. ‘I’ve no recollection of it. These children have extra solutions than I do.’
Arrest and Expenses
Kowalewski refused subject sobriety exams and a breathalyzer, resulting in his arrest by Coral Gables Police. He faces one depend of driving below the affect and two counts of injury to property or particular person. He was booked at Turner Guilford Knight Correctional Middle however has since been launched, in keeping with county data.
College Response
The College of Miami launched an investigation following the incident. ‘The protection of our college students, school, employees, and the broader College group stays our prime precedence,’ the college acknowledged.
