Braun Levi, an 18-year-old tennis prodigy from Loyola High School in Los Angeles, tragically died on May 4, 2025, after a suspected drunk driver struck him in Manhattan Beach. The crash happened just weeks before his high school graduation and turned a joyful season into one of heartbreak. As news of his passing spread, the entire community came together to mourn the loss of a bright light.
A Promising Future Cut Short
Braun Levi had just finished a busy day filled with tennis training and college preparation. Around 12:45 a.m., he walked near the beach with a friend when a speeding SUV veered off the road and hit him. Paramedics arrived quickly and transported Levi to the hospital. Despite their best efforts, doctors could not save him.
Police arrested the driver, 33-year-old Jenia Belt, at the scene. She was under the influence of alcohol. Authorities charged her with driving under the influence and second-degree murder. Belt had a prior DUI conviction and was driving on a suspended license at the time of the crash. Investigators believe her reckless choices led directly to Levi’s death.
Overcoming Personal Tragedy
Earlier in 2025, a fire in the Pacific Palisades destroyed the Levi family’s home. Instead of allowing the loss to defeat him, Braun focused on helping others. He led donation drives for classmates who also lost homes and volunteered at shelters. His strength in adversity inspired his peers, teachers, and neighbors.
Braun’s ability to rise above personal tragedy showed his remarkable character. Teachers often described him as compassionate and determined. He greeted each day with optimism, even when circumstances felt overwhelming. His story taught many students how to stay hopeful during difficult times.
A Tennis Star in the Making
Braun Levi was not only a top student, but also a rising tennis star. He led Loyola High School’s tennis team to four straight league championships. As one of California’s top junior players, he competed fiercely while always showing good sportsmanship. His opponents respected his skill and his humility.
He had signed a letter of intent to play at the University of Virginia. The school’s tennis coaches praised his performance and leadership. They saw in him the qualities of a future national champion. Braun dreamed of representing the United States on the professional circuit and bringing pride to his family and community.
Pam Shriver, a former professional tennis player and longtime family friend, admired his talent. “He had all the makings of a future champion,” she said. “But more importantly, he was a genuinely kind young man.”
More Than an Athlete
Although many people knew Levi for his athletic success, those closest to him appreciated his character even more. He served on the Student Council, acted as a Big Brother mentor, and led Loyola’s Kairos spiritual retreats. He offered guidance to younger students and helped build a stronger school culture.
Classmates often turned to Braun for advice. He took time to make others feel heard and supported. Whether he was helping a freshman find a classroom or staying after school to tutor a teammate, Braun gave freely of his time. He never looked for praise, and he always prioritized others.
“You couldn’t help but love him,” said his friend Daniel Morales. “He made everyone feel like they mattered. He was the one who held our group together.”
A Community in Mourning
The news of Braun Levi’s death devastated the Loyola High School community. Students, parents, and teachers gathered for a candlelight vigil. They lit candles, shared stories, and paid tribute to the young man who had touched so many lives.
Principal Jamal Adams spoke at the vigil. He reminded everyone of Braun’s powerful legacy. “We’ve lost more than a student. We’ve lost a leader, a friend, a brother,” he said. “Braun lived with purpose, and his spirit will remain with us always.”
In addition, teachers and students decorated his locker with flowers, photos, and hand-written notes. Many students wore tennis bracelets and custom shirts that read “Braun Strong.” The entire school paused to remember the young man who had made such a strong impact in just 18 years.
The Stark Reality of DUI Crashes
Braun’s tragic death shines a light on a deadly problem in the United States. Drunk driving continues to claim lives across the country. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), nearly 37 people die each day in alcohol-related crashes. That equates to about one death every 39 minutes.
In 2022 alone, over 13,500 people died in DUI-related accidents. Many of them were young people like Braun, who had bright futures ahead of them. These crashes leave behind grieving families, shattered friendships, and communities struggling with heartbreak.
California ranks among the top five states with the most DUI-related deaths. Despite strict laws, high fines, and awareness campaigns, thousands still drive under the influence each year. Braun’s story reminds us of the urgent need for stronger education, better enforcement, and improved prevention strategies.
Legal Consequences and a Call for Change
Law enforcement officials confirmed that Jenia Belt will face multiple felony charges. Given her prior conviction and the suspended license, prosecutors plan to seek the maximum sentence. The District Attorney’s office stated that her actions meet the criteria for second-degree murder under California law.
Legal experts believe this case could serve as a turning point. Advocates are urging lawmakers to introduce stricter penalties for repeat DUI offenders. Many believe that harsher consequences and greater accountability can help prevent similar tragedies.
Local organizations have already started pushing for change. Some groups plan to introduce legislation that would require ignition interlock devices for all DUI offenders, even first-time violators. Others want to increase funding for public education campaigns and safe-ride programs.
Honoring Braun’s Legacy
Even after his passing, Braun Levi continues to inspire positive action. Loyola High School announced the creation of the Braun Levi Memorial Scholarship. The scholarship will support student-athletes who demonstrate leadership, kindness, and perseverance.
In addition, the school plans to rename its tennis court in Braun’s honor. A plaque will feature his name, photo, and a quote from one of his favorite speeches: “Success is not measured by what you accomplish, but by the impact you have on others.”
Braun’s family also established the Braun Strong Foundation. The foundation focuses on two key goals: supporting youth sports programs and promoting DUI prevention. They plan to partner with schools to provide educational workshops and create ride-share partnerships that help students get home safely.
“We don’t want another family to go through this pain,” said Braun’s mother, Sarah. “We want his story to make a difference.”
A Life Remembered
As graduation day approaches, Braun’s classmates continue to honor him in meaningful ways. They created a yearbook page dedicated to his memory, filled with photos, quotes, and messages of love. His cap and gown will appear on stage during the ceremony, alongside his medals and awards.
During the graduation, his name will be called, and students will stand for a moment of silence. Friends plan to wear green ribbons, his favorite color, as a symbol of unity and remembrance.
“He should be walking across that stage with us,” said classmate Mia Henderson. “But even though he’s not physically here, we know he’s still with us in spirit.”
Carrying the Message Forward
Braun’s story continues to ripple beyond his school. News outlets across the country shared his story, prompting conversations about youth safety and drunk driving. Community leaders have invited Braun’s parents to speak at local events and school assemblies.
The Braun Strong Foundation already began organizing its first awareness event. The event will include a youth tennis tournament, guest speakers, and educational booths about DUI prevention. Proceeds will go toward scholarships and safe-ride programs.
Many schools across California expressed interest in joining Braun’s family in the fight against drunk driving. They plan to display his story in classrooms, assemblies, and online campaigns to remind students that one poor choice can change countless lives.
Conclusion: A Lasting Legacy
Braun Levi lived with purpose, compassion, and strength. Although his life ended far too soon, his legacy continues to grow. He inspired others through his talent, his heart, and his dedication to helping those around him.
As the community mourns his passing, they also find ways to carry his spirit forward. The scholarships, awareness programs, and reforms created in his name will continue to save lives and uplift others.
By remembering Braun’s story and learning from this tragedy, people can work together to create a safer future. A young man with endless potential may be gone, but the love he shared and the light he brought into the world will never fade. Braun Levi will never be forgotten.
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