Super Bowl reporter Adan Manzano dies suddenly at 27 in New Orleans just months after wife’s tragic crash death
Police are investigating the circumstances of his death, and details remain scarce
SPORTS anchor Adan Manzano has died while covering the Super Bowl in New Orleans – just months after his wife’s tragic death.
Manzano, described by colleagues as a “rising star,” was in New Orleans reporting on the big game for Telemundo Kansas City and Tico Sports.
The local Telemundo affiliate KGKC confirmed the popular sports reporter died on Wednesday while on assignment in New Orleans.
KGKC did not say how Manzano died but confirmed police are investigating his death.
In an official statement, the station wrote, “We are saddened to share that Adan Manzano passed away yesterday in New Orleans, while on assignment to cover the Super Bowl for both Telemundo Kansas City and Tico Sports.
“We are cooperating with law enforcement as they investigate this tragic event.
“As KGKC’s sports anchor and reporter, Adan was a true professional and a rising star, who exemplified excellence in his work.
“We will deeply miss his passion for sports and the contributions he made to the local community.
“Our thoughts and heartfelt condolences go out to his family and loved ones during this difficult time.”
Manzano had joined the Chiefs Television Crew at the beginning of the 2024 season as a sideline reporter.
His death came months after his beloved wife tragically died last April as the result of a car crash in Topeka.
She had worked as an elementary school teacher.
The couple leaves behind their orphaned daughter, a toddler.
Ashleigh LeeAnn Boyd was just 24 years old when she died following a two-vehicle, head-on crash on April 11 reported CBS affiliate .
According to the obituary from Kevin Brennan Family Funeral Home, Boyd was born in Flowood, Mississippi.
She had attended Kansas State University and earned her degree from Emporia State University.
Adan was a true professional and a rising star, who exemplified excellence in his work. We will deeply miss his passion for sports and the contributions he made to the local community.
local Telemundo affiliate KGKC
The notice also said Boyd was a devoted second-grade teacher at Lowman Hill Elementary School, and “was loved by students, parents, and the staff.”
The poignant obituary described Boyd as the most kindest, caring, beautiful person with a sparkling personality.
Manzano’s Instagram bio paid tribute to her, saying, “Always in my heart Ashleigh Boyd.”
The couple’s child – who was reportedly seriously injured in the crash – was just 15 months old when her mom died.
LOVE OF FOOTBALL
Kansas NBC affiliate previously reported Manzano was part of the broadcast for Telemundo KC’s Super Bowl coverage for a second-straight season.
Originally from Mexico City, he moved to Topeka, Kansas, in 2018 and went on to graduate from Kansas State University.
He told 27 News that American football was not a priority before moving to Kansas.
However, he fell in love with the sport and took great pride in sharing the stories of people from different backgrounds.
Tico Sports' official statement on the death of Adan Manzano
Tico Sports said today: “It is with a heavy heart that we can confirm the death of Adan Manzano Aguilar while in New Orleans on assignment for Telemundo Kansas City, and as a member of our Tico Sports Spanish broadcast team.
“We are cooperating with law enforcement as they are investigating this tragic event.
“Adan was a talented and professional broadcaster, providing sideline coverage for the Kansas City Chiefs Spanish broadcast and play-by play caller for the KC Current.
“He was an enthusiastic and energetic team player who was well-liked and respected.
“Adan was a devoted father to his young daughter, a helpful colleague, and loyal friend.
“He will be greatly missed by our Tico family and will live on in our hearts and memories.”
He said, “I used to dream about this, but I never expected that it was going to come that soon, it’s just a blessing.”
Manzano also noted that he had watched, “the Kansas City Chiefs growing so fast in Mexico City.”
He said sharing the sport with the Spanish community was vital, “because the Hispanic and Latinos – they’ve supported soccer culturally and historically, but there’s always a space where football can be the favorite sport.
“That’s why I think it’s important.”
SPANISH FANS
Manzano also said it was vital that Spanish-speaking listeners could follow the game in their native language.
“Styles, cultures, they get their own culture, the phrasing, the rhythm, the tone of voice that you use – the moment of the game,” he said.
There has been an outpouring of tributes and prayers, with one fan saying on social media, “This is so sad.”
Another wrote, “Condolences to his family and work family. So sorry for your loss of this young man.”
And a third said, “Omg. His wife died on our street. She was a special teacher, my granddaughter loved her!”
Another person added, “My goodness, that poor baby, both parents now. My heart breaks.”
On Monday night, Manzano had shared photos from the Super Bowl’s opening night at the Superdome.
While reporting from New Orleans this week, Manzano interviewed Travis Kelce, Patrick Mahomes and other Chiefs stars.
The Orleans Parish Coroner’s Office did not immediately return a request for comment, reported New Orleans news website .
