High school tennis star killed in 'vehicular accident,' reportedly with drunken driver
A California high school tennis star just a month away from graduation was reportedly killed by a suspected drunken driver on May 4, according to police and multiple local reports.
The Manhattan Beach Police Department said in a press release that officers responded to a report of a traffic collision between a car and pedestrian on Sepulveda Boulevard in the early morning hours of May 4.
Upon arrival, officers found a victim lying in the street. Life-saving medical efforts were attempted, but the victim succumbed to their injuries, the release said.
Braun Levi, an 18-year-old high school senior, died in the accident, according to multiple local outlets, including The Los Angeles Times and ABC7.
Levi's school, Loyola High School, said on its website May 6 that the 18-year-old "tragically lost his life in a vehicular accident Saturday night."
The Manhattan Beach Police Department did not immediately respond to USA TODAY's request for comment.
Levi was 'one of the most accomplished student-athletes,' school says
Levi attended Loyola High School, where he was set to graduate early next month, the school said.
"Braun was a shining presence in our Loyola family, bringing light, joy and inspiration to everyone he touched," Loyola High School said.
Loyola Athletics said on social media that Levi was a star tennis player for the school and had just won his fourth consecutive league championship on April 29.
"Levi, 18, was a four-year Varsity starter for Loyola Tennis and cemented himself as one of the most accomplished student-athletes in program history," the post said.
Loyola Athletics also described Levi as "the ultimate team captain" and a "true leader."
"His lovable personality, infectious smile, and boundless energy made him a beloved member of the Loyola community," the post said.
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Driver in fatal traffic collision charged with DUI
The Manhattan Beach Police Department said in a press release that the driver of the vehicle in the May 4 fatal traffic collision was 33-year-old Jenia Belt of Los Angeles.
Belt was arrested and charged with two counts of driving under the influence of alcohol and one count of murder, police said.
Police said the investigation is ongoing, and anyone with information should contact Officer Chasen Gaunt at 310-802-5098.
Melina Khan is a trending reporter covering national news for USA TODAY. She can be reached at MKhan@gannett.com.
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: 18-year-old tennis star Braun Levi reportedly killed by drunken driver
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