A Kansas City sports reporter died while he was in New Orleans this week while covering the Chiefs’ upcoming Super Bowl LIX matchup against the Philadelphia Eagles.
Adan Manzano died Wednesday in the city, Telemundo Kansas City and Tico Sports announced Thursday afternoon. He was 27.
Further specifics of his death are not yet known. Both organizations said they are cooperating with local officials, and an investigation is ongoing.
“As KGKC’s sports anchor and reporter, Adan was a true professional and a rising star who exemplified excellence in his work,” the network said in a statement. “We will deeply miss Adan and 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, according to Fox 4 in Kansas City, was originally from Mexico City. He moved to Topeka, Kansas, in 2018 and graduated from Kansas State. He’s been with Telemundo Kansas City since 2021 and was preparing to cover his third Super Bowl with the station.
Manzano was also covering the game for Tico Sports and was a member of their Spanish broadcast team.
“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,” Tico Sports said in a statement. “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.”
Manzano is survived by his daughter, Eleanor. His wife, Ashleigh, was killed in a car crash last April, per Fox 4.