The fashion industry woke up to the bad news on Wednesday as it mourned the loss of a true icon. Spanto, also known as Chris Printup, was one of those rare individuals who leave an indelible mark and inspire countless others. However, fate had a different plan, and he was taken away from us far too soon in a tragic accident. As the co-founder of Born X Raised, a brand that emerged in 2013, Spanto’s profound love and commitment to Los Angeles were palpable in every aspect of his work. Born X Raised became the living embodiment of his unwavering dedication to the city that shaped him.

Remarkably, Spanto’s journey into the world of streetwear began in an unlikely setting – a jail where he found himself imprisoned. His early life was fraught with adversity, marked by poverty and hardships that shaped him into a rebellious spirit. However, Spanto’s resilience and determination propelled him forward, ultimately transforming his name into a renowned brand. In the course of his brand’s journey, it forged remarkable collaborations with prominent Los Angeles sports teams, including the esteemed NFL franchise, the Los Angeles Rams.

Rams pay tribute to its partner

The L.A. Rams paid tribute to their prominent clothing figure, Spanto, on Twitter. The team’s official page shared a photo of Spanto and accompanied it with a heartfelt caption, stating, “We mourn the loss of a close friend, Chris “Spanto” Printup. We extend our condolences to his friends, family, and Born x Raised team. Spanto Forever. 🖤” Spanto met with a car accident and was swiftly transported to a hospital in Albuquerque, N.M., where he was tragically pronounced deceased on Wednesday morning at 7:56 AM.

The accident occurred on eastbound I-40 near the Route 66 Casino exit. He passed away at the age of 42 and has previously fought a battle with cancer. The news of his passing has sent shockwaves throughout the industry, and his associates, partners, fans, and the streetwear community as a whole are collectively mourning his loss.

A turbulent life with a tragic ending

As per the New York Times, Spanto was born on June 6, 1981, in the Venice neighborhood of Los Angeles to Butch Mudbone and Cheryl Printup. His upbringing was marked by poverty and a tumultuous childhood, including periods of juvenile detention and involvement in substance dealing, as documented in a film about his life. It was during his time in a supermax prison that he conceived the idea of establishing Born X Raised, considering it a means to channel his frustration and anger. Before that, he had worked as a craftsman in the sheet metal worker’s Union, Local 33. In 2013, Spanto, along with his partner, commenced selling their clothing line at Union, a prominent Los Angeles store.

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However, shortly after the brand’s launch, he received a devastating terminal cancer diagnosis, profoundly impacting his well-being. Enduring four years of chemotherapy, he underwent significant physical changes, losing 100 pounds and most of his hair. Nevertheless, in 2018, he joyfully shared the news online that he had triumphed over cancer, instilling hope and inspiration among his followers. Tragically, fate dealt a cruel blow as Spanto met an untimely demise. At the time of his passing, he was attending a traditional Native American ceremony in Albuquerque. Notably, his father had also tragically passed away just two months prior in a car accident following a similar ceremony.

Spanto’s life journey, marked by struggle, resilience, and creative expression, left a profound impact on many, and he will be remembered as an inspirational figure.

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