by Manhattan Beach, California — The family of 18-year-old tennis standout Braun Levi, who was struck and killed by an alleged drunk driver just hours before his high school graduation festivities, has filed a $200 million wrongful death lawsuit, according to newly released statements and court filings.
Family Seeks Accountability After Tragic Loss
In a statement shared with the Los Angeles Times and the Manhattan Beach News, Braun’s mother, Jennifer Levi, explained that the family’s decision to pursue civil action is motivated not by anger, but by a desire for change.
“This is not a decision rooted in anger, vengeance, or financial gain,” she said. “It is a decision grounded in accountability, prevention, reform, and the unwavering love we have for Braun.”
Braun, a nationally ranked tennis player who had committed to the University of Virginia, was hit while crossing Sepulveda Boulevard shortly after 12:46 a.m. on May 4. According to the Manhattan Beach Police Department, officers arrived minutes later to find him critically injured in the roadway. He was transported to a hospital, where he died from his injuries.
Driver Was Allegedly Intoxicated and Previously Arrested for DUI
Authorities identified the driver as 33-year-old Jenia Resha Belt, who allegedly had a blood alcohol concentration nearly twice the legal limit at the time of the collision. Court documents also reveal that Belt was driving on a suspended license related to a prior DUI arrest.
The Levi family’s attorney, Spencer Lucas, stressed the need for stronger DUI policies in the state.
“As a repeat offender, Jenia Belt knew the inherent risks of driving under the influence, and she must be held accountable,” Lucas said. “Not only has she stolen the life of an incredible young man, but she has forever changed the lives of those who loved him.”
Lucas added that the family hopes this case sparks meaningful reform to California’s DUI laws, which the family believes could prevent similar tragedies.
Criminal Case Still Pending as Investigation Continues
Despite Belt being arrested at the scene, she was released from custody on June 4. As of mid-November, no criminal charges have been formally filed.
A spokesperson for the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office told that prosecutors are working closely with detectives as the investigation continues.
“Specialized prosecutors have been working with investigators from the beginning and are continuing to monitor the investigation,” the spokesperson said. “No case has yet been formally presented.”
The lack of immediate criminal charges has intensified the family’s pursuit of civil accountability, particularly in light of Belt’s prior DUI history.
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Family Turning Tragedy Into Advocacy
The Levi family has transformed their grief into a mission. Proceeds from their lawsuit will support public safety initiatives, scholarships, and the development of public tennis centers, all overseen by their newly formed Live Like Braun Foundation.
The foundation aims to honor Braun’s legacy by expanding youth access to tennis and creating programs that raise awareness about the dangers of impaired driving. The family hopes this dual effort — legal action and advocacy — will highlight the broader issues surrounding repeat DUI offenders in California.
Their personal journey has been marked by hardship beyond this tragedy; the family lost their Palisades home in the January wildfires and had recently relocated to Manhattan Beach. Friends, coaches, and classmates described Braun as resilient, dedicated, and deeply committed to both athletics and academics.
A Promising Future Cut Short
Braun was widely recognized as one of the top young tennis talents in the country, having earned national rankings and recruiting attention from major universities. His commitment to the University of Virginia, one of the nation’s premier collegiate tennis programs, represented a major milestone in his rising career.
Those who knew him say his life was defined by discipline, kindness, and a love for the game.
The Levi family’s lawsuit seeks to ensure that his loss serves as a catalyst for change on a statewide level.
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