Sports reporter dies in New Orleans ahead of Super Bowl, TV station says

A sports reporter died Wednesday while in New Orleans to cover Super Bowl 59, according to the Kansas City TV station he worked for.

‘We are saddened to share that Adan Manzano passed away yesterday in New Orleans,’ KGKC said in a news release. ‘We are cooperating with law enforcement as they investigate this tragic event.’

KGKC described Manzano as a ‘true professional and rising star who exemplified excellence in his work.’ This was Manzano’s third-straight season covering the Super Bowl for the TV station.

‘We will deeply miss Adan and his passion for sports, and the contributions he made to the local community,’ the TV station said. ‘Our thoughts and heartfelt condolences go out to his family and loved ones during this difficult time.’

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New Orleans police told USA TODAY it does not have any additional information to provide on the incident.

Tico Sports: ‘Adan was a devoted father to his young daughter’

Tico Sports released a statement to USA TODAY saying, ‘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,’ the statement continued.

Manzano’s wife died last year in a car accident

Mazano’s wife, Ashleigh LeeAnn Boyd Manzano, died in a car crash in Topeka, Kansas on April 11, 2024. The accident not only killed the second-grade teacher, but it also seriously injured her infant passenger and the adult driver of another vehicle.

Topeka USD 501 Superintendent Tiffany Anderson called Boyd a ‘bright light’ whose ‘second-grade students loved,’ according to an email to parents obtained by Topeka Capital-Journal, part of the USA TODAY Network.

‘Ashleigh was the most kindest, caring, beautiful person. Her sparkling personality was contagious and would light up any room she walked into,’ her obituary reads. ‘She was a ray of sunshine and always had a smile on her face. Ashleigh touched so many lives and had a positive influence on everyone she met!’