A tragic incident occurred in Manhattan Beach seven months ago when a repeat drunk driver allegedly struck and killed high school tennis star Braun Levi, 18, as he crossed Sepulveda Boulevard. This devastating event took place just weeks before Levi was set to graduate from Loyola High School. The force of the impact was so severe that it resulted in catastrophic injuries, ultimately leading to Levi’s untimely death.
Levi, a nationally ranked tennis player who was set to play at the University of Virginia, was honored by his future team during an NCAA tournament appearance following his passing. The Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office recently announced murder charges against Jenia Resha Belt, the driver responsible for the collision. Nathan Hochman, the District Attorney, emphasized the zero-tolerance policy for reckless behavior that endangers lives, especially driving under the influence.
It was revealed that Belt’s driver’s license had been suspended in January 2024, and she had previously faced drunk-driving and hit-and-run charges. She is currently being held on $2 million bail and could face up to 15 years to life in prison if convicted of felony charges of murder and gross vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated.
In addition to the criminal charges, Levi’s family has filed a $200 million wrongful death lawsuit against Belt. The lawsuit alleges that she consumed excessive amounts of alcohol at a bar in Hermosa Beach before getting behind the wheel. The family plans to use the funds from the lawsuit to establish the “Live Like Braun Foundation,” a scholarship fund that will support public tennis centers and raise awareness about the dangers of impaired driving.
Belt’s arraignment is scheduled for January 13th, where she will face the consequences of her actions. This tragic incident serves as a stark reminder of the devastating impact of driving under the influence and the importance of holding individuals accountable for their reckless behavior.
