MANHATTAN BEACH, Calif. — The community is in mourning following the tragic death of Braun Levi, an 18-year-old tennis star from Loyola High School, who was fatally struck by an alleged drunk driver early Sunday morning.
Levi was walking with a friend along Sepulveda Boulevard around 1 a.m. when the incident occurred. Eyewitnesses reported hearing the crash, which left the tight-knit community reeling. Braun was just weeks away from graduating, and his loss has left friends and family grappling with profound sadness.
The suspect in the case, 33-year-old Jenia Belt, is facing potential charges of DUI and murder. She remains in custody without bail as authorities investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident.
On Sunday evening, the Loyola High School campus became a gathering place for grieving students, staff, and friends. Attendees filled the space with tears, memories, and a collective resolve to celebrate Levi’s life. “Braun was more than just a student; he was an inspiration to all of us,” Assistant Principal Paul Jordan said, highlighting the impact Levi had on his classmates and the community as a whole.
In recent weeks, Levi had achieved national recognition in tennis and had just enjoyed another victory on the court. His dedication to the sport was reflected in his ambitions and countless hours of practice. “His remarkable spirit and love for life will serve as a guiding light for all who knew him,” a friend expressed during the vigil.
Levi’s family has faced their own hardships recently, having lost their home in the Palisades Fire. Despite their challenges, Braun’s warmth and infectious love for his friends and family shone brightly. He is survived by his parents and older sister, who are now left with an unimaginable void.
As the community continues to come to terms with this loss, many are committed to honoring Levi’s legacy through acts of kindness and a deeper appreciation for life. “May we all embrace each day with joy and love, just as Braun did,” another friend said during the memorial gathering, emphasizing the lessons learned from Levi.
As investigations unfold, the heartbreaking nature of this incident serves as a stark reminder of the perils of reckless driving, leaving an indelible mark on a community that treasured one of its most promising young athletes.