High school tennis star killed by alleged drunk driver weeks before graduation

A high school student in Southern California was killed on Sunday after a suspected drunk driver hit him, according to police.

According to the Manhattan Beach Police Department, authorities apprehended 33-year-old Jenia Belt on charges of DUI and murder at 12:46 a.m. on Sunday. This arrest came after a person was discovered lying on the road beside a vehicle. Reported by Fox 11, the victim was identified as Braun Levi, an 18-year-old Loyola High School student on the brink of graduating. He had plans to enroll at the University of Virginia post-graduation.

Police are holding Belt without bail.

Levi was in his senior year at Loyola High School, with graduation slated for June. As a consistent four-year starter on the varsity tennis team, he garnered recognition as “one of the most accomplished student-athletes in program history.” Notably, he secured a league championship on April 29, according to a social media update from the Catholic Jesuit school.

Braun Levi is seen wearing a Loyola High School hoodie.

Braun was a senior at Loyola High School. (@braun.levi/Instagram)

Braun’s friends showered his Instagram page with touching messages after he died.

“Anyone who knew you understands their fortune. You’ve never met someone you didn’t affect, leaving a lasting impression with everyone. I’m committed to living and loving as fully as you did every day. You keep an eye on the family from heaven, and I’ll watch over them down here. Save a spot for me up in heaven. Love you, Brauny,” one individual shared.

Loyola High School principal Jamal Adams spoke highly of Braun in a message to staff and students Sunday.

Braun is seen with friends

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.

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