Braun Levi Obituary, Death: High school senior killed by suspected drunk driver with suspended license in Manhattan Beach
Braun Levi Obituary, Death – An 18-year-old high school senior, just weeks away from graduation, has been identified as the victim of a fatal crash that occurred early Sunday morning in Manhattan Beach. Authorities report that the suspected driver was intoxicated and operating a vehicle with a suspended license at the time of the incident.
The victim, Braun Levi, was walking along Sepulveda Boulevard near the 100 block shortly after 12:45 a.m. when he was struck by a car. He was accompanied by a friend during the incident. The vehicle was driven by 33-year-old Jenia Belt, a Los Angeles resident, according to the Manhattan Beach Police Department.
Emergency services responded swiftly, and Levi was transported to a nearby hospital. Despite efforts to save his life, he was later pronounced dead from injuries sustained in the crash.
News of Levi’s death quickly spread through the Loyola High School community, where he was a senior set to graduate in just two weeks. The school’s principal, Jamal K. Adams, released a heartfelt statement expressing grief over the loss.
“It is with profound sadness that we inform you of the passing of Braun Levi, Class of 2025, who tragically lost his life in a vehicular accident last night,” Adams said. “Braun was a shining presence in our Loyola family, bringing light, joy, and inspiration to everyone he touched.”
Levi was deeply involved in school life and athletics. According to a tribute from Loyola’s athletic department posted on Instagram, he was a four-year starter and team captain for the school’s tennis team. His accomplishments both academically and athletically earned him recognition as one of the most distinguished student-athletes in the school’s history.
On Sunday evening, a large group of family, friends, and community members gathered at the scene of the accident to hold a vigil in Braun’s memory. Flowers, candles, handwritten notes, and photos were placed at the intersection as mourners expressed their sorrow and remembered Levi’s kind nature and positive energy.
“He was a light, such a friendly, smart, nice, nice kid,” said one woman at the memorial. “They’re all just heartbroken.”
Further adding to the tragedy, it was revealed that Levi’s family had recently relocated to Manhattan Beach after their previous home was destroyed in the Palisades Fire. Despite facing personal hardship, Levi remained committed to helping others. Principal Adams noted that Braun was a key figure in organizing peer-to-peer counseling for other young people who had also lost their homes.
“He was instrumental in helping build peer-to-peer counseling for other young people that lost their homes,” Adams shared. “And then was instrumental with some of our administrators in putting together an overnight retreat.”
Police arrested Jenia Belt shortly after the crash on suspicion of driving under the influence. On Monday, the California Department of Motor Vehicles confirmed that Belt’s driver’s license had been suspended since January 2024. Her previous driving history reveals a troubling pattern. According to court records in Los Angeles County, Belt was charged in 2023 with several offenses, including a hit-and-run involving property damage, driving with a blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.08 or higher, and either driving with a BAC of 0.15 or greater or refusing a chemical sobriety test.
These revelations have sparked outrage and frustration among community members, as many questioned how someone with a suspended license and a prior DUI charge was still able to get behind the wheel.
Braun Levi’s death has cast a heavy shadow over the Manhattan Beach and Loyola High School communities. What was supposed to be a time of celebration — graduation, college plans, and a bright future — has now become a period of mourning for a life taken far too soon.
As the investigation continues, the Manhattan Beach Police Department is urging anyone who may have information related to the incident to come forward. Tips can be shared by contacting MBPD at (310) 802-5098.
In the meantime, Levi’s loved ones continue to honor his memory by sharing stories of his compassion, resilience, and leadership. Whether on the tennis court, in the classroom, or helping fellow students through difficult times, Braun Levi left a lasting impact that will not be forgotten.
His tragic death is a stark reminder of the dangers of impaired driving and the devastating consequences it can have. For a community now united in grief, Braun’s legacy of kindness, strength, and service will live on — even in the midst of sorrow.
