Loyola High School Mourns Tragic Death of Braun Levi, Beloved Tennis Captain and Honor Student, Killed in Manhattan Beach DUI Crash Just Weeks Before Graduation

Loyola High School Mourns Tragic Death of Braun Levi, Beloved Tennis Captain and Honor Student, Killed in Manhattan Beach DUI Crash Just Weeks Before Graduation

According to local authorities, the fatal crash occurred late at night earlier this week when a suspected drunk driver struck the vehicle Braun was traveling in. Emergency responders arrived at the scene on a stretch of road in Manhattan Beach, where Levi was pronounced dead from injuries sustained in the impact. The driver of the other vehicle has since been arrested and is facing charges including felony DUI and vehicular manslaughter.

Braun Levi was just weeks away from graduating with the Class of 2025. Known among his peers and teachers for his sharp intellect, humility, and unwavering dedication to both academics and athletics, Braun served as captain of the Loyola Cubs boys’ tennis team. His leadership had helped steer the team through a successful spring season, with hopes of making a deep playoff run.

Loyola High School released a heartfelt statement mourning the loss of a student described as “a bright light and a cherished leader.” The school’s president, Fr. Gregory M. Goethals, S.J., expressed sorrow and offered condolences to the Levi family:

“Braun was an exceptional young man whose life embodied the Ignatian values we strive to instill in every student—service, faith, and leadership. His passing is a tragic reminder of how precious and fragile life can be. We extend our deepest sympathy to his parents, siblings, teammates, coaches, and friends.”

In a solemn gathering on Loyola’s campus Thursday morning, students, faculty, and community members filled the campus chapel for a memorial Mass in Braun’s honor. Many remembered him as an “old soul” with a gentle demeanor, someone who led not by volume but by the quiet strength of his character.

Tennis Coach Marcos Villareal, who had mentored Braun since his freshman year, was emotional as he spoke of his captain:

“Braun was the glue of our team—he kept everyone grounded, motivated, and focused. Whether it was cheering from the sidelines or leading warmups with a smile, he gave his heart to this team every single day.”

Friends of Braun recalled his love for the game, his mentorship of younger players, and his passion for social justice. Outside of tennis, Braun was an honors student with interests in political science and had recently been accepted to several top universities, including UCLA and Georgetown.

The Levi family, through a statement shared by Loyola, expressed heartbreak but gratitude for the outpouring of support:

“Braun was our pride and joy. He lived with compassion, kindness, and purpose. We are devastated beyond words, but we are so thankful for the community that loved him. He touched so many lives in his short time here.”

The tragedy has also prompted renewed calls from local leaders and residents for stricter measures against drunk driving. Manhattan Beach Police confirmed that the driver responsible for the crash had a prior DUI conviction and was driving with a suspended license.

A candlelight vigil is scheduled for this weekend on Loyola’s campus, where classmates and friends will share memories and say goodbye to a young man taken far too soon.

In honor of Braun, Loyola High School will retire his tennis jersey, and the team plans to dedicate the remainder of its season to his memory. Additionally, a scholarship fund is being established in his name to support student-athletes who exemplify the values Braun lived by.

Braun Levi is survived by his parents, Daniel and Marissa Levi, and his younger sister, Eliana. Funeral arrangements are pending, and the family has requested privacy as they navigate this unimaginable loss.