A high school student in Southern California was killed on Sunday after a suspected drunk driver hit him, according to police.
The Manhattan Beach Police Department reported that Jenia Belt, 33, was taken into custody by officers at 12:46 a.m. on Sunday for suspected DUI and murder charges. The arrest came after an individual was discovered lying next to a car on the street. The victim was identified as 18-year-old Braun Levi, a student at Loyola High School who tragically lost his life. Just a month shy of his graduation, Levi had plans to continue his studies at the University of Virginia after high school.
Police are holding Belt without bail.
Braun Levi, a senior at Loyola High School, was on the brink of graduation in June. He had a notable presence as a four-year varsity athlete on the school’s tennis team and was recognized as a standout student-athlete with achievements. The Catholic Jesuit school commemorated Levi’s victory in a league championship on April 29 through a post on social media.
Braun was a senior at Loyola High School. (@braun.levi/Instagram)
Braun’s friends showered his Instagram page with touching messages after he died.
Messages poured in for Levi, reflecting on his impactful character and the loss felt by those who knew him. His ability to connect with everyone he encountered left a lasting impression. A heartfelt tribute expressed, “You never met a stranger, and left an impact on everyone you met. I’m going to live and love as big as you every day. You watch the fam from heaven, and I’ll keep an eye on them down here. Shotgun one for me up in heaven. Love you Brauny,” capturing the sentiment of those mourning his passing.
Loyola High School principal Jamal Adams spoke highly of Braun in a message to staff and students Sunday.
Braun was set to attend the University of Virginia after graduation. (@braun.levi/Instagram)
“Braun was a shining presence in our Loyola family…bringing light, joy, and inspiration to everyone he touched,” Adams wrote.
A prayer vigil was held on Sunday evening in remembrance of Braun.
