The vibrant city of Los Angeles mourns the untimely passing of a local celebrity and streetwear icon, Chris Printup, the founder of the renowned clothing line Born X Raised.

Just six months after triumphantly defeating cancer, Chris ‘Spanto’ Printup, aged 42, lost his life in a tragic car accident in Albuquerque, New Mexico.

The news of his passing sent shockwaves throughout the community, prompting an outpouring of tributes and heartfelt messages from Angelenos and fans worldwide.

This article pays homage to the influential founder, highlighting the impact of his brand, his commitment to philanthropy, and his lasting imprint on Los Angeles culture.

The Rise of Born X Raised

In 2013, Chris Printup launched Born X Raised, a streetwear label that quickly captivated the streets of Los Angeles.

Collaborations with iconic sports teams like the Dodgers and the Rams propelled the brand’s popularity, with their limited edition releases selling out within minutes.

Born X Raised stood out for its unapologetic portrayal of “the real Los Angeles” and its vibrant cultural heritage.

Printup’s unique vision resonated with the city’s inhabitants, earning the brand recognition in prestigious publications such as Vogue, The New York Times, and the L.A. Times.

Printup’s childhood experiences in ’80s and ’90s Los Angeles heavily influenced his designs, which he described as a bold statement and a symbol of resilience.

Benevolent Contributions

Printup’s compassion extended beyond fashion.

He wholeheartedly embraced his role as a community leader, dedicating his time and resources to various charitable causes. Born X Raised collaborated with the Ronald McDonald House, raising over $10,000 for the organization.

Additionally, Printup generously gifted pairs of Born X Raised Nike SB Dunks to the graduating class of Venice High School, honoring his father’s memory and celebrating his family heritage.

His commitment to social causes earned him respect and admiration, further cementing his influence on the streets of Los Angeles.

A City Mourns

The news of Printup’s tragic accident left the city of Los Angeles in mourning. Within moments of the announcement, social media platforms overflowed with tributes from devastated Angelenos and prominent figures alike. Rapper YG, with over 9.2 million followers, captured the collective sentiment, expressing, “The city hurt’n.”

The Los Angeles Rams, the L.A. Sparks, the L.A. Galaxy, and the L.A. Football Club were among the sports teams that paid their respects, recognizing Printup’s significant contributions to the city’s culture.

Social media influencers, artists, and community members joined the chorus of mourners, expressing their gratitude for Printup’s inspiration and underscoring his lasting impact on Los Angeles.

A Lasting Legacy

Chris Printup’s legacy will forever be intertwined with the spirit of Born X Raised and the vibrant city he championed. The brand’s impact extends far beyond the fashion industry, embodying a sense of unity and community.

Born X Raised proudly showcased its Los Angeles roots, collaborating with local sports teams and involving friends and supporters in its creative endeavors.

Printup’s unwavering commitment to his family, his city, and his culture will continue to resonate for generations to come. While the loss of such a visionary figure is deeply felt, the spirit of Born X Raised will undoubtedly live on, forever etched in the heart and soul of Los Angeles.

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