High school senior killed by alleged DUI driver in Manhattan Beach identified

A high school senior has been identified as the victim in a tragic and deadly Manhattan Beach crash involving a motorist suspected of being under the influence of alcohol and or drugs early Sunday morning.  

The teenage victim, now identified as Braun Levi, was reportedly walking with a friend when he was struck by a 33-year-old driver identified by police as Jenia Belt at around 12:45 a.m. 

The collision occurred near the intersection of Sepulveda Boulevard and Ronda Drive.  

When officers with the Manhattan Beach Police Department arrived at the scene, the teen was found in the roadway next to the 33-year-old’s vehicle.  

Paramedics with the Manhattan Beach Fire Department rushed Levi to the hospital, where despite life-saving measures, authorities said he succumbed to his injuries and was declared deceased.  

Investigators confirmed that Belt was taken into custody and booked on suspicion of driving while under the influence.  

In footage of the scene obtained by KTLA, Belt’s vehicle is seen behind yellow crime-scene tape with heavy front-end damage and a shattered windshield. The 33-year-old is also seen handcuffed as she’s being escorted to a waiting patrol cruiser.  

Loved ones, family and friends have been visiting the site of the crash where a growing memorial is filled with flowers and photos remembering Levi, a senior at Loyola High School.  

Many of those visiting the memorial did not want to go on camera but told KTLA’s Carlos Saucedo that Levi was a standout student athlete, captain of his tennis team and was bound for the University of Virginia after graduation.  

“Braun was a shining presence in our Loyola family, bringing light, joy, and inspiration to everyone he touched,” Loyola HS Principal Jamal K. Adams said in a message to the school community.  

Earlier in the evening, mourning students and families could be seen on the school campus where a prayer vigil was held.  

School officials also said that Loyola’s Counseling Department was ready to support students, faculty, staff and community members who may need it during this time.