The sports journalism world is mourning the sudden death of journalist Adan Manzano, who passed away at the young age of 27 during the coverage of Super Bowl LIX. The news broke on February 6, 2025, just days before the game where the Kansas City Chiefs were set to face the Philadelphia Eagles.
Born in Mexico City, Manzano was known for his passion and dedication to sports reporting, and he was excitedly preparing to cover this year’s Super Bowl from New Orleans. According to Telemundo Kansas City, where Manzano worked, he died on February 5, 2025, under circumstances currently unexplained, sparking outrage and sorrow within his community.
“Lamentamos compartir que Adán Manzano, reportero y presentador deportivo de Telemundo Kansas City, falleció ayer en Nueva Orleans mientras estaba en asignación para cubrir el Super Bowl para Telemundo Kansas City y Tico Sports. Estamos cooperando con las autoridades mientras investigan este trágico suceso,” the station reported.
This shocking event was particularly heartbreaking as it occurred just one year after Manzano's wife, Ashleigh LeeAnn Boyd, tragically passed away in a car accident. The couple had recently welcomed their daughter, Eleanor. Observers note how Manzano’s personal life had been overshadowed by this loss, and the community mourns alongside his family for another devastating blow.
Days before his death, Manzano had shown his enthusiasm on social media, engaging with fans about the Super Bowl festivities. He had shared details of his travel to Louisiana, expressing joy about being part of such significant events. “Extrañaremos profundamente a Adán, su pasión por los deportes y las contribuciones que hizo a la comunidad local,” stated Telemundo Kansas City, reflecting the sentiments of many who admired his work.
Manzano’s career began after completing his formal education, which included time at the Kansas State University and prestigious institutions for journalism, which allowed him to establish himself as a rising star within sports broadcasting.
He joined Telemundo Kansas City, where he covered major sports events, particularly focusing on NFL games, including several Super Bowls. His dedication to the craft was noted by his peers, who highlighted his contributions made to advance sports journalism, particularly relating to Hispanic communities.
“Era un jugador de equipo entusiasta y enérgico, muy querido y respetado... Adan era un padre dedicado a su hija pequeña, un colega servicial y un amigo leal,” Tico Sports expressed, praising Manzano's character both professionally and personally.
Adan’s sudden passing reverberated throughout the sports community, especially among those who recognized him as not just a colleague but as someone who brought life to sports reporting. Tributes flooded social media, with many expressing their disbelief and sadness over the news. Memo Schutz, of MVS Radio, remarked on how “hoy, a los 27 años de edad, desgraciadamente fallece,” emphasizing the shock surrounding the circumstances of his death.
Currently, no confirmed details have emerged about the specifics surrounding his death; investigations are being handled by local authorities, with Telemundo Kansas City assisting. The family has requested privacy during this devastating time as they navigate the loss of both Adan and the legacy of Ashleigh, who made her impact on the community as well.
Friends and colleagues, along with the audience who had grown to appreciate Adan’s work, are left to reminisce about his passion, exuberance for sports, and his innate ability to connect with people through his broadcast. His story is particularly poignant, as it paints the picture of both triumphs and heartaches within the life of someone taken far too soon.
Through this tragedy, the memory of Adan Manzano will undoubtedly continue to inspire many aspiring journalists and serve as a reminder of the impact one passionate individual can make within their community.