Adan Manzano, a passionate sports journalist, was in New Orleans on assignment to cover Super Bowl LIV. He was working for both Telemundo Kansas City and Tico Sports, bringing excitement and in-depth coverage to Spanish-speaking fans. But tragically, his promising career and vibrant life were cut short.
KGKC Telemundo Kansas City confirmed the heartbreaking news of Manzano’s passing. The 27-year-old sports anchor died on Wednesday, February 6. His sudden death shocked colleagues, friends, and the sports community, as many remembered him as a rising star dedicated to his work.
According to the Jefferson Parish Coroner’s Office, Manzano was found at a hotel in Kenner. “There were no obvious signs of trauma to his body,” the office stated. An autopsy was conducted, but the official cause of death remains pending as further tests are being carried out.
Teaming up with law enforcement, KGKC Telemundo Kansas City promised full cooperation in the ongoing investigation. In an emotional statement, the media house shared, “Adan was a true professional and a rising star who exemplified excellence in his work.
We will deeply miss Adan, his passion for sports, and the contributions he made to the local community.”
Colleagues described Manzano as dedicated and helpful. His friends remembered him as loyal and kindhearted. He was best known for his sideline reporting on the Kansas City Chiefs’ Spanish-language broadcasts and his role as a play-by-play announcer for the KC Current.
“He will be greatly missed by our TICO family and will live on in our hearts and memories,” said KGKC Telemundo Kansas City in a heartfelt tribute.
Kansas City Mayor Quinton Lucas also expressed his sorrow. “Adan was so young and full of energy. He truly covered almost every event in the community. So very sad to see this news. My condolences to his family, friends, and colleagues.”
Steve Downing, the general manager of KGKC, reflected on Manzano’s enthusiasm for covering Super Bowl LIV. “He was thrilled to be part of such a historic event. His energy was infectious, and he had a bright future ahead of him.”
Manzano was the only journalist from Telemundo Kansas City in New Orleans, showing just how committed he was to bringing coverage to his audience. This was his third straight season covering the Super Bowl, and he had worked hard to earn a place on the sidelines in 2024.
“I used to dream about this, but I never expected it to happen so soon. It’s just a blessing,” Manzano once said about his career.
Even as the news of his passing spread, his last Instagram post reflected his excitement for the big game.
“‘Opening Night’ officially kicks off Super Bowl LIX week! ✨ The teams, the excitement, and all the stories surrounding this big event where the Chiefs seek the coveted tri-championship start here. Don’t miss any details of this great event by Telemundo Kansas City! 🔥🏆.”
Beyond his career, Manzano’s greatest love was his young daughter, Eleanor. He was a devoted father, always finding ways to include her in his world.
His loss is even more tragic because Eleanor had already lost her mother, Ashleigh LeeAnn Boyd Manzano-Aguilar, who died on April 11, 2024, in a devastating multi-vehicle crash near Topeka.
At just 24 years old, Ashleigh had been a beloved second-grade teacher at Lowman Hill Elementary School, known for her dedication to students and her warm spirit.
Manzano’s Instagram bio carried a touching tribute to his late wife: “Always in my heart @ashleighboyd37 ❤️🥇.” Ashleigh had been his biggest supporter, proud of his accomplishments, and thrilled when he was promoted to sideline reporting in 2024.
“He has worked so hard for this. There were times when he had two or three jobs just to make ends meet. And now, knowing he gets to go out there and do what he loves and what he’s good at, it’s just the best feeling ever,” she had shared.
At home, Manzano’s wife and daughter loved to watch him on TV. “We always raced to see who could spot him first when he was broadcasting,” Ashleigh once said with a smile. Even when Eleanor wasn’t with him in person, Manzano found ways to keep her close.
One of his favorite memories was attending the Kansas City Current’s first media game and proudly wearing a jersey with Eleanor’s name on the back. He captioned the moment, “There is this girl who stole my heart, and something tells me I am going to love her forever 🎀.”
Now, the heartbreaking reality is that Eleanor has lost both her parents. The sports community, colleagues, and fans are mourning the loss of a man who was not only an exceptional journalist but also a loving father and devoted husband.
His legacy lives on in the hearts of those he touched, the games he covered, and the passion he poured into everything he did.
