A 27-year-old sports anchor and reporter from Kansas City, who was on assignment to cover the Super Bowl in New Orleans, has passed away, according to his employer. Adan Manzano, of Telemundo KC and Tico Sports, breathed his last on Wednesday, February 5th, as confirmed in a statement by Telemundo Kansas City.
"Adan was an exceptional professional, a rising star whose dedication and talent shone brightly in his work," the news station mourned. "We will deeply mourn Adan, his fervent passion for sports, and the invaluable contributions he made to our local community." The station further added that they were "actively cooperating with authorities as they investigate this heart-wrenching incident."
The Jefferson coroner's office revealed in a statement, reported by NOLA.com, that Manzano passed away in a hotel in Kenner, Louisiana, just outside of New Orleans. Although his autopsy has been concluded, the exact cause of his demise awaits further test results, NOLA.com noted. (A representative from the New Orleans Police Department informed PEOPLE that they had no information regarding the incident, while the Orleans and Jefferson parish coroners did not immediately respond to requests for comment.)
A native of Mexico City, Manzano earned his degree from Kansas State University and joined the Chiefs Television Crew as a sideline reporter at the commencement of the previous NFL season, according to Fox affiliate KCTV. Tragically, Manzano's wife, Ashleigh LeeAnn Boyd, was killed in a car accident on April 11, 2024, as reported by CBS affiliate WIBW. Her obituary remembered her as "the kindest, most caring, and beautiful person, whose sparkling personality was contagious and could illuminate any room she entered. She was a ray of sunshine, always wearing a smile."
The couple left behind a toddler daughter named Eleanor. This was to be Manzano's third consecutive season covering the Super Bowl. Last year, he shared with NBC affiliate KSNT-TV his pride in bringing the thrill of football to a Spanish-speaking audience. "The Kansas City Chiefs are growing rapidly in Mexico City," Manzano had said. "Bringing football to the Spanish community is crucial because Hispanics and Latinos have historically supported soccer culturally, but there's always room for football to become their favorite sport. That's why I believe it's important."
Those who had the privilege of working alongside Manzano are expressing their profound grief as they grapple with his untimely demise. "Our thoughts and deepest condolences are with his family and loved ones during this incredibly difficult time," Telemundo Kansas City wrote.
