Adan Manzano, a Super Bowl reporter for Telemundo Kansas City and Tico Sports, has tragically passed away at the age of 27 while reporting on this weekend's clash between the Kansas City Chiefs and Philadelphia Eagles in New Orleans.

The loss comes shortly after Manzano faced the heartbreak of his wife's death in April. His late wife was involved in a fatal car crash less than a year ago in Topeka, leaving behind him and their child.

While assigned to cover the eagerly-anticipated Super Bowl, Manzano served as an anchor and reporter in Louisiana. However, his sudden passing on Wednesday has shocked colleagues and viewers.

The local TV station released an official statement confirming the sad news: "We are saddened to share that Adan Manzano passed away yesterday in New Orleans, while on assignment to cover the Super Bowl for both Telemundo Kansas City and Tico Sports. We are cooperating with law enforcement as they investigate this tragic event.

"As KGKC's sports anchor and reporter, Adan was a true professional and a rising star, who exemplified excellence in his work. We will deeply miss 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 was born in Mexico City but earned his stripes at Kansas State University after relocating to Topeka in 2018. He started covering the sidelines for the Chiefs Television Crew at the onset of the 2024 season.

Sharing football with those who speak Spanish was a driving force for him. "Because the Hispanic and Latinos - they've supported soccer culturally and historically, but there's always a space where football can be the favorite sport," he shared with 27 News. "That's why I think it's important."

His early career highlights include taking the mic as a sideline reporter during the 2024 Super Bowl after first gracing the broadcast booth in 2023. "I used to dream about this but I never expected that it was going to come that soon," Manzano reflected at the time. "It's just a blessing."

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