News Summary

The community of Manhattan Beach mourns the tragic loss of Braun Levi, an 18-year-old tennis star, who was killed by an alleged impaired driver. The talented player was set to attend the University of Virginia and was deeply involved in his school community. His family and friends gathered for a heartfelt celebration of life and a memorial paddle out at the beach. A scholarship fund named ‘Live Like Braun’ has been established to honor his legacy of kindness and inspiring others.

Manhattan Beach Mourns the Loss of Tennis Star Braun Levi

In a heart-wrenching turn of events, the vibrant community of Manhattan Beach is coming together to remember and celebrate the life of Braun Levi, an 18-year-old tennis prodigy from Loyola High School. Tragically, Levi was taken from us far too soon when he was struck and killed by an alleged impaired driver in the early hours of May 5. The incident unfolded around 12:45 a.m. while Levi was walking with a friend along the bustling South Sepulveda Boulevard.

The Fateful Night

Levi’s life came to a sudden halt after he was found in the street and rushed to the hospital, where he reportedly succumbed to his injuries. Shockingly, the driver involved, a 33-year-old woman named Jenia Resha Belt, was arrested on-site, suspected of driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Authorities disclosed that Belt was behind the wheel on a suspended license, a consequence of previous DUI charges.

Promising Future

This talented young man’s future shone brightly. Levi was not only a nationally ranked tennis player but was also set to attend the prestigious University of Virginia in the fall. Having recently relocated to Manhattan Beach following the devastating Pacific Palisades Fire earlier this year, the family was looking forward to a fresh start. Instead, they now face the unspeakable pain of losing their beloved son.

A Shining Star at Loyola

Levi was much more than just an athlete; he was a leader and a beacon of positivity at Loyola High School. Not only did he captain the varsity tennis team for three years, but he also played an active role in student government and engaged in community service through programs like Big Brothers and Kairos retreats. A talented volleyball team manager, he was known for uplifting those around him, describing him as someone whose presence illuminated every corner.

The Celebration of Life and Paddle Out

In an outpouring of love and support, a community celebration of life took place at Loyola High School’s Hayden Circle, drawing together friends, family, and community members to honor Levi’s remarkable spirit. Just before this event, a heartfelt “Paddle Out” memorial occurred at the beach, where dozens of individuals took to their surfboards to pay tribute to the young man who left an indelible mark on everyone he met.

A Community in Mourning

Levi’s father spoke about his son as the embodiment of friendship, radiant joy, and magnetic energy. The love shared between him and his friends was evident, with many recalling how he was akin to a celebrity in the tennis circles, making waves not just for his skills but for his infectious enthusiasm. The school’s staff and community members expressed their deep sorrow over the loss of such a valuable soul.

A Call for Action

As the community grapples with this tragedy, Levi’s mother described his untimely death as a “senseless act of cowardice, stupidity, and evil.” The legal repercussions for Belt are still pending, and she is scheduled to appear in court for potential violations related to her past indiscretions.

Honoring Braun’s Legacy

To ensure Levi’s passionate spirit lives on, his family has set up the “Live Like Braun” Scholarship Fund, encouraging donations in his memory rather than sending flowers. This initiative aims to honor a young man who believed deeply in lifting others up, ensuring his legacy of kindness and excellence continues to inspire generations to come.

As Manhattan Beach shares in the mourning of this promising young life, the community shows solidarity in remembering his warmth, laughter, and the enthusiasm that brightened so many days.

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