Braun Levi’s name continues to echo across his community, not just because he was a gifted athlete, but because of the potential he carried, the character he embodied, and the movement that arose after his tragic death. As an 18-year-old senior at Loyola High School, Braun was known for his powerful tennis game, infectious spirit, and natural leadership. His life was headed toward an exciting future, including competing at the collegiate level after committing to the University of Virginia. But in May 2025, everything changed when he was struck and killed by a DUI driver in Manhattan Beach. What followed was grief, outrage, and ultimately inspiration, as the community came together to honor his legacy and fight for stricter DUI laws. This article takes a closer look at who Braun was, what happened that night, and how his story sparked a wave of change that still grows today.
Quick Bio Information
(15–20 concise, helpful facts)
Full Name: Braun Levi
Age at Passing: 18
Birth Year: 2007
Hometown: Los Angeles, California
School: Loyola High School
Grade at Passing: Senior
Sport: Tennis
Ranking: Nationally recognized high school tennis player
College Commitment: University of Virginia
Date of Incident: May 4, 2025
Time of Collision: Around 12:46 a.m.
Location of Incident: Sepulveda Boulevard at Rhonda Drive, Manhattan Beach
Driver Involved: Jenia Resha Belt
Driver’s BAC: Allegedly 0.19%
Legal Status of Driver: Pleaded not guilty
Charges Against Driver: Second-degree murder, gross vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated, DUI, driving with suspended license
Family Response: Filed $200 million wrongful death lawsuit
Planned Foundation: Live Like Braun Foundation
Community Involvement: Vigils, tributes, and awareness campaigns in his honor
Early Life And Rising Talent
Braun Levi grew up in a supportive environment that encouraged him to explore both academics and athletics, but it was tennis where he quickly stood out. Coaches and peers described him as determined, focused, and unusually disciplined for someone his age. Braun’s early promise on the court became clear as he excelled through junior competitions and quickly evolved into one of the strongest players at his school. His dedication was matched by a calm, mature personality that made him admired by teachers, teammates, and even opponents. He wasn’t only known for winning matches but for uplifting the people around him, leaving a lasting impression wherever he played.
A Standout At Loyola High School
As a senior at Loyola High School, Braun had already earned recognition as one of the top young tennis athletes in Southern California. He was widely respected not only for his technical ability but for his leadership. Coaches often spoke about his quiet confidence, humility, and ability to motivate teammates through example rather than words. Loyola High School has a long tradition of producing standout athletes, and Braun was well on track to become one of its brightest success stories. His achievements both academically and athletically made him a role model to younger students who looked up to him with admiration. He was seen as a student who balanced ambition and kindness effortlessly.
A Tennis Career Full Of Promise
Braun’s tennis career reflected a combination of natural talent and relentless practice. He competed in numerous state and regional tournaments, earning a respected position among nationally ranked junior athletes. He had committed to continuing his tennis journey at the University of Virginia, a top program known for developing elite collegiate players. This commitment highlighted the confidence coaches had in him, believing he had the potential to excel at the NCAA level and beyond. Many in the tennis community expected Braun to become the kind of athlete whose name would eventually be recognized nationwide.
The Night Of The Crash
The tragedy occurred shortly after midnight on May 4, 2025. Around 12:46 a.m., Braun was crossing the street at the intersection of Sepulveda Boulevard and Rhonda Drive when he was struck by a silver Infiniti FX35. Emergency personnel arrived quickly and transported him to a nearby hospital, where he later passed away due to the severity of his injuries. News of his death spread rapidly through the school and local tennis community, prompting an outpouring of grief from students, families, and coaches who could not believe that a young man with so much promise was taken so suddenly and senselessly.
Who Is Jenia Resha Belt And What Are The Allegations?
The driver, identified as Jenia Resha Belt, a 33-year-old Los Angeles woman, was arrested at the scene on suspicion of DUI. According to prosecutors, Belt’s blood alcohol level was allegedly 0.19%—more than twice the legal limit. Her license had already been suspended due to a prior DUI arrest, raising serious concerns about repeat offenders and current DUI enforcement in California. Her involvement in the fatal crash immediately drew public outrage, especially from families and advocates who had long warned about the dangers of impaired driving and the need for stricter penalties for those with multiple DUI violations.
A Seven-Month Investigation
The investigation into the crash lasted seven months, during which authorities gathered evidence, examined the collision details, and evaluated Belt’s driving history. During this time, Belt was released from custody while the District Attorney’s office built the case. After a detailed review of the findings, prosecutors officially charged her with second-degree murder, gross vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated, and other related offenses. These charges reflected the seriousness with which investigators viewed the case, believing that her actions demonstrated conscious disregard for human life.
The Not Guilty Plea And Ongoing Court Case
On January 13, 2026, Belt appeared in a Torrance courtroom and entered a plea of not guilty. This hearing marked the next major moment in a case that had already drawn widespread attention across California. Prosecutors emphasized the severity of the charges, and the judge set her bail at $2 million. Her next court appearance is scheduled for March 12, 2026, when a hearing will determine if there is enough evidence to proceed to trial. If convicted, Belt faces a potential sentence of 15 years to life in state prison, a penalty that reflects the gravity of her alleged actions.
The District Attorney’s Statement
The Nathan J. Hochman, representing the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office, publicly acknowledged the immense loss felt by Braun’s family and the entire Loyola High School community. He described Braun as a remarkable young man whose future had been cut short and emphasized that driving under the influence is not a minor mistake but a deliberate choice that puts lives at risk. Hochman’s message deeply resonated with many in California, reinforcing the importance of accountability and the need for stronger DUI prevention.
How The Community Responded
The loss of Braun Levi deeply impacted students, teachers, parents, and local residents. Tributes poured in as people gathered to honor his life through candlelight vigils, memorials, and statements that remembered his vibrant personality and outstanding sportsmanship. Many who knew him personally shared stories about how he had encouraged others, helped younger athletes grow, or brightened their day with a simple conversation. His memory created a ripple effect that extended far beyond the tennis court, showing how deeply one life can influence those around it.
The Levi Family’s Fight For Change
Braun’s family transformed their grief into action. His mother, Jennifer Levi, has taken an active role in advocating for stricter DUI laws and joined the Mothers Against Drunk Driving California State Legislative Board. The Levi family also filed a $200 million wrongful death lawsuit against Belt, aimed at funding the Live Like Braun Foundation, a project dedicated to preserving Braun’s legacy and supporting causes he cared about. Their mission is not just to honor him but to ensure that no other family faces this kind of avoidable tragedy.
Why This Case Sparked Statewide Attention
Braun’s story resonated across California because it highlighted the dangers of repeat DUI offenders and the devastating consequences of impaired driving. Many were shocked that Belt had a prior DUI and was still behind the wheel. The case quickly became a symbol of the urgent need for reforms in how DUI laws are enforced and how repeat offenders are monitored. Community members, lawmakers, advocates, and safety organizations have since referenced Braun’s case when pushing for policy changes that strengthen consequences and prevent similar tragedies.
The Meaning Behind The Live Like Braun Foundation
The foundation proposed by his family aims to keep Braun’s values alive by supporting youth sports, promoting road safety, and giving back to the community he loved. While details are still developing, the mission reflects Braun’s compassionate nature and his belief in uplifting others. The foundation will serve both as a tribute and a tool for positive change, encouraging young people to pursue excellence while also raising awareness about the risks of impaired driving.
How Braun’s Story Continues To Inspire
Even after his passing, Braun continues to inspire people who never met him. His dedication, talent, and kindness have become guiding examples for students who want to make a difference in their communities. Teachers and coaches still speak about Braun’s work ethic as something to aspire to, reminding new athletes of the impact one person can have. His legacy has also motivated adults to step forward in support of DUI reform, community safety, and youth mentorship.
Final Thoughts
Braun Levi’s story is heartbreaking, but it is also filled with strength, unity, and a determination to create something meaningful out of tragedy. His life serves as a reminder of the incredible potential young people carry and how deeply their presence can affect the world around them. As his community continues to honor him through advocacy, remembrance, and the creation of the Live Like Braun Foundation, his impact remains alive. This young tennis star left a legacy far bigger than the sport he loved, showing how a single life can inspire an entire movement toward compassion, awareness, and positive change.
FAQs About Braun Levi
Who Was Braun Levi?
Braun Levi was an 18-year-old Loyola High School tennis star known for his exceptional talent, leadership, and commitment to the sport. He was considered one of the top young players in California and had committed to the University of Virginia before his tragic passing.
What Happened To Braun Levi?
He was struck by a vehicle while crossing the street in Manhattan Beach on May 4, 2025. He was taken to the hospital but later died from his injuries.
Who Is Jenia Resha Belt?
She is the Los Angeles woman accused of driving under the influence with a 0.19% BAC when she struck Braun. She is facing charges including second-degree murder and gross vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated.
What Legal Actions Has Braun’s Family Taken?
His parents filed a $200 million wrongful death lawsuit to support the Live Like Braun Foundation and are actively advocating for DUI reform.
Why Has The Case Drawn So Much Attention?
The combination of a repeat DUI offender, a young athlete’s death, and the community’s emotional response created a powerful conversation about DUI laws and public safety.
What Is Braun Levi’s Legacy?
His legacy lives on through community activism, the planned foundation in his honor, and the impact he left on teammates, coaches, and the broader community.
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