Safety Initiatives on Sepulveda Boulevard Following May Tragedy

The tragedy of Braun Levi's death on May 4, 2025, weighs heavily on the hearts of Manhattan Beach residents and City staff. Braun died after being hit by a vehicle driven by an intoxicated driver in the 200 block of South Sepulveda Boulevard in Manhattan Beach. Beyond the profound impact of his loss on his family and friends, we as a community recognize that any death or injury due to drunk driving is a preventable tragedy. The City prioritizes public safety and is grateful for initiatives sponsored by Braun's family to prevent future drunk driving fatalities.

Mayor David Lesser offered the following statement: "The loss of Braun Levi is devastating. Our hearts are with the Levi family, and we appreciate their channeling such tragedy into positive action. Our goals as a City are aligned with the family and the "Live Like Braun Foundation" established in Braun's memory. We stand ready to support their mission to prevent drivers under the influence of alcohol from taking other lives."

In the wake of Braun's death, the City initiated a focused, proactive effort with our partners at the California Department of Transportation (CALTRANS) to enhance safety along the Sepulveda Boulevard corridor in Manhattan Beach. Since June, the City and CALTRANS have held tri-weekly meetings to expedite the evaluation of safety concerns and potential countermeasures.

This ongoing collaboration has identified over a dozen possible safety measures. These measures include:

• Pedestrian Improvements: Enhancing crosswalk visibility and safe pathways.
• Traffic Circulation Changes: Optimizing flow to reduce conflict points.
• Public Education: Campaigns intended to educate the public on safe driving, riding, and walking along the busy Sepulveda Boulevard Corridor.

The Manhattan Beach Police Department has also taken immediate action to reinforce public awareness and enforcement in alignment with the goals of the Live Like Braun Foundation. They include:

• Driving Under the Influence (DUI) Prevention: The City conducted a DUI checkpoint in July and is increasing its education campaign to deter drunk drivers. Additionally, the Police Department is conducting high visibility speed and DUI enforcement along the Sepulveda Corridor.
• Data Collection: Our police department has deployed surveillance cameras to record traffic and pedestrian behavior on Sepulveda Boulevard. This visual data, combined with the comprehensive collision analysis currently being conducted by both the City and CALTRANS, will inform future safety measures.

The City of Manhattan Beach remains dedicated to supporting the Levi family in delivering meaningful, impactful safety changes for all our residents and visitors.