Tragedy Strikes: High School Tennis Star Killed by Suspected Drunk Driver
The promising future of Braun Levi, an 18-year-old high school tennis prodigy, was tragically cut short on May 4th when he was struck and killed by a suspected drunken driver in Manhattan Beach, California. Just weeks away from his graduation, Levi’s untimely death has sent shockwaves through his school, community, and the wider tennis world.
According to a press release issued by the Manhattan Beach Police Department, officers responded to a report of a traffic collision involving a car and a pedestrian in the early hours of May 4th on Sepulveda Boulevard. Upon arriving at the scene, they discovered a victim lying in the street. Despite immediate life-saving attempts, the victim succumbed to his injuries. Local news outlets, including The Los Angeles Times and ABC7, quickly identified the victim as Braun Levi, a senior at Loyola High School.
Loyola High School confirmed the devastating news on its website on May 6th, stating that the 18-year-old had "tragically lost his life in a vehicular accident Saturday night." The school community is reeling from the loss of a student described as a "shining presence" who brought "light, joy, and inspiration to everyone he touched."
The loss is particularly poignant given Levi’s extraordinary achievements both on and off the tennis court. He was a star athlete for Loyola’s tennis team, recently securing his fourth consecutive league championship on April 29th. Loyola Athletics celebrated Levi’s accomplishments on social media, recognizing him as a "four-year Varsity starter" and "one of the most accomplished student-athletes in program history."
Beyond his athletic prowess, Levi was also a respected and beloved leader within the school community. Loyola Athletics described him as "the ultimate team captain" and a "true leader." His "lovable personality, infectious smile, and boundless energy made him a beloved member of the Loyola community."
The outpouring of grief and support from the Loyola community is a testament to the profound impact Levi had on those around him. His teachers, coaches, teammates, and friends remember him as a bright, dedicated, and compassionate individual who always strived for excellence in everything he did. His absence will be deeply felt by all who knew him.
The Manhattan Beach Police Department has identified the driver of the vehicle involved in the fatal collision as 33-year-old Jenia Belt of Los Angeles. Belt has been arrested and charged with two counts of driving under the influence of alcohol and one count of murder, according to police reports. The severity of the charges reflects the devastating consequences of drunk driving and the commitment of law enforcement to hold offenders accountable.
The investigation into the incident is ongoing. The Manhattan Beach Police Department is urging anyone with information about the collision to contact Officer Chasen Gaunt at 310-802-5098. Authorities are working to gather all available evidence to ensure a thorough and just investigation.
Levi’s death serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of driving under the influence of alcohol. The senseless loss of a young life filled with promise underscores the need for increased awareness and preventative measures to combat drunk driving. Advocates for stricter drunk driving laws hope that this tragedy will spark renewed efforts to prevent future incidents and protect innocent lives.
The death of Braun Levi has not only devastated his family and friends but has also cast a shadow over the entire Loyola High School community. As they grapple with this profound loss, they are also celebrating Levi’s life and legacy. His achievements on the tennis court, his leadership qualities, and his unwavering positive spirit will continue to inspire those who knew him.
The school is planning a memorial service to honor Levi’s life and provide an opportunity for the community to come together and grieve. Details about the service will be announced in the coming days. In the meantime, Loyola High School is offering counseling and support services to students, faculty, and staff who are struggling to cope with the tragedy.
As the investigation into the collision continues, the community awaits justice for Braun Levi. While no legal outcome can bring him back, holding the responsible party accountable will provide some measure of closure for his family and friends. The hope is that this tragedy will serve as a wake-up call and prevent similar incidents from happening in the future.
Braun Levi’s memory will live on through the lives he touched and the legacy he leaves behind. He will be remembered as a talented athlete, a dedicated student, a compassionate friend, and a shining example of what it means to live a life of purpose and passion. His untimely death is a profound loss for the entire community, but his spirit will continue to inspire generations to come.
