A local Kansas City TV reporter died Wednesday in New Orleans while on assignment covering Super Bowl LIX.
Adan Manzano, 27, was working with local Telemundo affiliate KGKC and covering the Super Bowl for the third straight year, the station announced Thursday in a statement.
“Adan was a true professional and a rising star, who exemplified excellence in his work,” the station said. “We will deeply miss Adan and his passion for sports, and the contributions he made to the local community.”
The circumstances of Manzano’s death remained unclear as of Thursday afternoon. KGKC said it was cooperating with local law enforcement as authorities investigated Manzano’s death.
Originally from Mexico City, Manzano moved to Topeka in 2018 and graduated from Kansas State University. As the Kansas City Chiefs built a dynasty, Manzano made a habit of covering playoff games for KGKC. He worked as a sideline reporter for the station at last year’s Super Bowl.
“I used to dream about this, but I never expected that it was going to come that soon. It’s just a blessing,” Manzano told Topeka NBC affiliate KSNT before that game.
Manzano’s wife, Ashleigh Boyd, died in a car accident in April 2024. Boyd, 24, was an elementary school teacher in Topeka.
The couple leaves behind a 2-year-old daughter, Eleanor, who was described as Manzano’s “biggest fan.”