Adan Manzano was a talented sports journalist known for his passion and dedication to covering major sporting events. His journey in the field of sports media was marked by remarkable achievements, but his sudden passing at the young age of 27 left a void in the journalism community.
Early Life and Education
Born in Mexico City, Adan Manzano developed an early interest in sports and media. His enthusiasm for journalism led him to move to the United States, where he pursued higher education in Kansas. He attended Kansas State University, where he refined his reporting skills and established himself as a promising journalist.
Career in Sports Journalism
Manzano began his professional career in April 2021 when he joined Telemundo Kansas City as a sports anchor and reporter. He quickly gained recognition for his ability to connect with audiences, providing detailed coverage of sports events, player performances, and match analyses.
One of his most notable roles was as a sideline reporter for the Kansas City Chiefs’ Spanish-language broadcasts, allowing him to bring the excitement of the NFL to Spanish-speaking fans. Additionally, he contributed as a play-by-play commentator for KC Current, Kansas City’s professional women’s soccer team.
His career saw rapid growth, and by 2025, he had already covered three Super Bowls, proving his expertise and credibility in the field.
Personal Life and Challenges
Despite his professional success, Manzano faced personal hardships. He was married to Ashleigh LeeAnn Boyd, a dedicated teacher, and together they had a daughter, Eleanor. However, in April 2024, tragedy struck when Ashleigh lost her life in a car accident, leaving Manzano as a single father.
Despite the immense loss, he remained committed to both his career and his daughter, balancing his responsibilities with unwavering determination.
Tragic Passing and Investigation
On February 5, 2025, while covering Super Bowl LIX in New Orleans, Manzano was found unresponsive in his hotel room in Kenner, Louisiana. Authorities confirmed that there were no signs of trauma, and the cause of death remains under investigation.
Following his death, law enforcement arrested Danette Colbert, a woman with a criminal history of financial fraud. Surveillance footage showed her in Manzano’s company shortly before his passing, and she was later caught using his credit card for unauthorized purchases. During the investigation, police recovered Manzano’s credit card, phone, narcotics, and a firearm from her residence. While she faces charges of fraud and theft, the investigation into Manzano’s death is still ongoing.
Legacy and Tributes
Manzano’s sudden passing shocked the journalism and sports communities. Colleagues and fans took to social media to express their grief and appreciation for his contributions. Telemundo Kansas City honored him as a hardworking professional who had a deep love for sports and storytelling.
Kansas City Mayor Quinton Lucas also paid tribute, acknowledging Manzano’s role in bringing quality sports coverage to the Hispanic community.
Beyond his professional achievements, Manzano’s greatest legacy is his young daughter, Eleanor. The community has come together to support her, ensuring that she grows up knowing the impact her father had on sports journalism.
Conclusion
Adan Manzano was more than just a reporter; he was a passionate journalist who connected sports fans to the games they loved. His dedication, resilience, and talent left a lasting impression, and his untimely passing is a tragic loss to the media industry. As investigations continue, his memory will live on through the stories he told and the people he inspired.
