A recent tragedy has shaken the Manhattan Beach community after a suspected DUI driver fatally struck a pedestrian in the early hours of Sunday. The victim, 18-year-old Braun Levi, was a senior at Loyola High School and a celebrated tennis player, just one month shy of graduation. Manhattan Beach police responded to the incident at around 12:46 a.m. along the 100 South block of Sepulveda Boulevard, where they discovered Levi alongside a vehicle, as reported by NBC Los Angeles.
Levi was transported to a hospital, where he later died, according to Manhattan Beach police. The suspected driver, 33-year-old Jenia Belt from Los Angeles, was arrested on the spot on suspicion of driving under the influence and murder. Belt is currently being held without bail. "Braun loved his family, he loved Loyola, he loved his Palisades community, and he loved all of you, his fellow Cubs," Assistant Principal Paul Jordan told a crowd gathered for a vigil, ABC7 reports.
Braun Levi was a notable figure in his school's sports department, and he notably won his fourth consecutive league championship on April 29, according to FOX LA. A vigil organized on the Sunday following the tragic event saw the outpouring of grief and support from the community, indicating the deep impact Levi had on those around him.
The Loyola High School administration issued a statement acknowledging Braun's positive influence within their community. "Braun was a shining presence in our Loyola family, bringing light, joy, and inspiration to everyone he touched," said LHS Principal Jamal K. Adams, as obtained by CBS News Los Angeles. The investigation into the incident by the Manhattan Beach Police Department is still ongoing, and anyone with information is strongly encouraged to come forward by contacting Officer Gaunt at 310-802-5098.
