Moreno Valley's iconic "M" on Box Springs Mountain was lit in purple and gold on January 27, in honor of Kobe Bryant. The famed Los Angeles Laker lost his life January 26, 2020 in a helicopter crash. Also killed was his 13-year-old daughter and seven others.
"Kobe Bryant was one of the greatest basketball players of all time," explained Dr. Yxstian Gutierrez, Mayor of Moreno Valley, "and over his 20-year career and after, he had become a beloved member of the Southern California community. In recognition of all those killed, and in honor of Kobe's achievements and the high esteem in which his memory will always be held by so many of us in Moreno Valley, we'll light the M for them tonight."
The City lights the M in various colors almost nightly in recognition of causes and people especially important to the community.