Tragic Loss: Rising Sports Journalist Adan Manzano Passes Away in New Orleans
What was meant to be an electrifying night of football and celebration has instead turned into a moment of sorrow for the sports journalism community.
Adan Manzano, a passionate and talented broadcaster, had traveled to New Orleans to cover Super Bowl LIV. But instead of capturing the action on the field, his name is now in the headlines for an unimaginable tragedy.
A Dream Career in Sports Journalism
View this post on Instagram
For Manzano, sports weren’t just a profession—they were his passion. As a dedicated journalist covering the Kansas City Chiefs and other major sporting events, he was well-respected for his commitment to bringing the game to Spanish-speaking audiences.
Working for Telemundo Kansas City and Tico Sports, he had spent years covering the Super Bowl, each time moving closer to his dreams. From a broadcast booth role to sideline reporting, his career had been on a remarkable upward trajectory.
“I used to dream about this, but I never expected it would come so soon. It’s just a blessing,” he had shared after being promoted to sideline reporter in 2024.
His enthusiasm for covering this year’s Super Bowl was palpable, especially with the Chiefs on the verge of making history with a potential three-peat. However, what should have been a career-defining moment has instead become one of heartbreak.
A Sudden and Mysterious Passing
Tragedy struck on February 6, 2025, when Manzano was discovered unresponsive in his hotel room in Kenner, Louisiana, just outside New Orleans. Authorities confirmed his passing the following day, stating that there were no immediate signs of trauma.
An autopsy has been conducted, but officials are still awaiting further test results to determine the cause of death.
The news sent shockwaves through the journalism and sports communities. Telemundo Kansas City, where Manzano had become a beloved figure, expressed their sorrow in a heartfelt statement.
“Adan was an exceptional professional and a rising star whose dedication and talent reflected excellence in his work. We will deeply miss Adan, his passion for sports, and the contributions he made to the local community.”
Kansas City Mayor Quinton Lucas also paid tribute, reflecting on the impact Manzano had on the city’s sports scene.
“Adan was so young and full of energy, and truly covered almost every event in the community. So very sad to see this news. My condolences to his family, friends, and colleagues.”
A Voice for Spanish-Speaking Football Fans
Manzano’s journey to becoming a respected sports journalist began in Mexico City, where he was born before eventually attending Kansas State University. His talent and dedication led him to a coveted role as a sideline reporter for the Chiefs’ Spanish-language broadcasts.
His ability to bridge the gap between the Hispanic community and the NFL was something he was deeply proud of.
“The Kansas City Chiefs are growing so fast in Mexico City,” he shared in an interview last year. “Bringing that to the Spanish community is so important. Football has the potential to become a favorite sport for Hispanic and Latino fans, just like soccer has historically been.”
Beyond the NFL, he also worked as a play-by-play announcer for the Kansas City Current, further expanding his presence in sports media.
Telemundo Kansas City reflected on his contributions, saying, “He will be greatly missed by our TICO Family and will live on in our hearts and memories.”
The station also confirmed that they are cooperating with authorities as investigations into his passing continue.
A Devoted Father Facing Unimaginable Loss
View this post on Instagram
Outside of his career, Manzano’s greatest love was his daughter, Eleanor. Tragically, she has now lost both of her parents.
Less than a year before his passing, his wife, Ashleigh LeeAnn Boyd Manzano-Aguilar, died in a multi-vehicle crash near Topeka in April 2024. She was only 24 years old.
The accident, which left an infant passenger in her car with serious injuries, was a devastating loss. In her obituary, she was remembered as “the kindest, most caring, and beautiful person,” someone whose radiant energy could light up any room.
Manzano never stopped honoring her memory. His Instagram bio included a tribute to his late wife: “Always in my heart @ashleighboyd37 ❤️🕊.”
Despite his grief, he remained devoted to their daughter, who was just 15 months old when her mother passed. He found special ways to include Eleanor in his life, even when he was busy on the sidelines.
One of his most touching moments came during a Kansas City Current media game, where he proudly wore a jersey with Eleanor’s name on the back. He captioned a collage of photos from the event, writing:
“There is this girl who stole my heart, and something tells me I am going to love her forever 🎀.”
A Profound Loss for the Sports World
View this post on Instagram
The passing of Adan Manzano is a heartbreaking reminder of how fragile life can be. His energy, passion, and dedication left an indelible mark on sports journalism and the Kansas City community.
As family, friends, and colleagues grieve, his legacy as a talented broadcaster, a dedicated father, and a passionate advocate for Spanish-language sports coverage will live on.
His memory will forever be cherished by those who knew him, and his work will continue to inspire aspiring journalists for years to come.
