High school senior identified as victim of deadly DUI crash in Manhattan Beach

The pedestrian who was fatally struck by a suspected DUI driver in Manhattan Beach early Sunday morning has been identified as a high school senior who was just months from graduating.

The incident occurred just after 12:45 a.m. in the 100 block of South Sepulveda Boulevard, according to the Manhattan Beach Police Department. 

Officers arrived to the scene and found the victim, who was rushed to a nearby hospital where they were later pronounced dead. 

He has been identified as 18-year-old Braun Levi, an 18-year-old student at Loyola High School, by school administration. 

"It is with profound sadness that we inform you of the passing of Braun Levi, Class of 2025, who tragically lost his life in a vehicular accident last night," said a statement from LHS Principal Jamal K. Adams. "Braun was a shining presence in our Loyola family, bringing light, joy, and inspiration to everyone he touched."

An Instagram post from the school's athletic department said that Braun was a four-year starter for their tennis team and had "cemented himself as one of the most accomplished student-athletes in program history."

Family and friends gathered on Sunday evening to honor Braun with a vigil, where dozens of flowers and photos adorned a corner of the intersection where the deadly crash happened. 

Police arrested the driver, 33-year-old Los Angeles woman Jenia Belt, on suspicion of driving under the influence and murder.

The investigation remains ongoing. 

Anyone with information is urged to contact Traffic Officer Gaunt at (310) 802-5098.