What was meant to be an exciting week of Super Bowl coverage turned into a heartbreaking tragedy with the sudden passing of Kansas City sports reporter Adan Manzano in New Orleans.
Manzano, who had traveled to cover the big game, was found unresponsive in his hotel room, leaving the sports community and his loved ones in shock.
Arrest Made in Connection to Manzano’s Death
Authorities in Kenner, Louisiana, have arrested a suspect linked to Manzano’s passing.
Police report that Danette Colbert was taken into custody after allegedly using Manzano’s credit card at multiple stores around the New Orleans area.
Surveillance footage reportedly captured Colbert with Manzano on Wednesday morning, and later, she was seen leaving his hotel alone.
Investigation Still Ongoing
While the arrest of Colbert is a major development, police have yet to determine the exact cause of Manzano’s death.
Investigators continue to piece together the events leading up to his final moments, and further details may emerge in the coming days.
A Bright Career Cut Short
Originally from Mexico, the 27-year-old Manzano had built a promising career as a sports anchor and sideline reporter, based in Topeka, Kansas.
His employer, KGKC Telemundo Kansas City, issued a statement mourning his loss, describing him as a “true professional and a rising star.”
The network praised his passion for sports and his impact on the local community, sending heartfelt condolences to his family and friends.
A Life Marked by Personal Loss
Manzano’s passing comes less than a year after another devastating loss.
In April of the previous year, his wife, Ashleigh, tragically died in a car accident in Topeka.
The crash also seriously injured their infant daughter, leaving Manzano to navigate life as a widowed father.
His Instagram bio featured a touching tribute to his late wife, reading: “Always in my heart, Ashleigh Boyd.”
A Passion for Sports Journalism
Manzano was a Kansas State University graduate who had quickly risen through the ranks in sports broadcasting.
He joined the Chiefs’ television crew at the start of the 2024 NFL season and was covering his third consecutive Super Bowl.
His work extended beyond football—he was also a dedicated soccer reporter, covering Sporting Kansas City, Big 12 basketball, and the Kansas Jayhawks.
His Final Assignment
Just days before his tragic passing, Manzano was actively reporting from New Orleans, sharing moments from the Super Bowl’s opening night at the Superdome.
He had conducted interviews with key players like Travis Kelce and Patrick Mahomes, bringing fans the latest updates as the Chiefs aimed for a historic three-peat.
Awaiting Answers
With an arrest made and the investigation ongoing, the sports world and Manzano’s loved ones are left searching for answers.
His sudden death has left a void, not just in the journalism field but in the hearts of those who knew and admired him.
As more details unfold, one thing remains certain—his legacy as a passionate and dedicated reporter will not be forgotten.
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