Adan Manzano emerged as one of the most prominent sports journalists in the media world before his young and talented life ended.
The young reporter established himself in Kansas City through sports commentary for regional teams especially the Kansas City Chiefs at only age 27.
Manzano started his life in Mexico City before making the journey to the United States because of his dedicated spirit and determined attitudes.
The combination of his hard work earned him a position at Telemundo Kansas City and Tico Sports so he could document major events such as the Super Bowl.
His existence outside professional duties was filled with major events. Since 2018 Manzano established his life in Topeka Kansas where he found Ashleigh LeeAnn Boyd who worked as a second-grade teacher at Lowman Hill Elementary School.
Eleanor became the first child for the couple as they embarked on what looked like a prosperous life together. Ashleigh served as a bright presence among people so her positive energy touched everyone she encountered.
However, tragedy struck in April 2024. During the time Ashleigh drove their baby daughter their car collided directly in front of a truck.
The medical authorities declared Ashleigh dead at the crash scene and transported Eleanor together with the truck driver to the hospital for medical care.
The devastating loss brought great heartache to Manzano yet he persisted in his occupation and dedicated himself to parenting duties.
Through continuous hard work after his loss Manzano gained complete respect and admiration from everyone who worked with him.
Credit: (Instagram/@adanmanzanoa)
The General Manager of Telemundo Kansas City Steve Downing said that Manzano brought dedication to his work combined with continual positivity to every situation.
The situation did not stop him from performing his work tasks because he wanted to capitalize on all available prospects.
The Kansas City Chiefs together with various other sports teams were the focus of Manzano’s broadcasts which attracted viewers and turned him into a recognized face across the local area.
Manzano made a reporting trip to New Orleans during the initial part of February 2025 for Super Bowl LIX coverage.
The third year in a row that Manzano covered the Super Bowl showed his commitment to sports journalism and his rising status in the industry.
On February 5 medical crews discovered him unresponsive while he was staying at a hotel room in Kenner Louisiana. Investigators found the scene unharmed while they continue to search for Manzano’s death cause.
Credit: (Instagram/@adanmanzanoa)
Further tests were pending to determine the autopsy results which the Jefferson Parish Coroner’s Office performed.
Telemundo Kansas City disclosed their collaboration with local investigators to seek details regarding this awful case.
Danette Colbert became the focus of police authorities when they detained her for her role in Manzano’s passing at age 48.
Hotel surveillance data recorded her single departure from the hotel room where Manzano died before his passing.
Authorities discovered that Colbert made transactions within various stores with Manzano’s credit card after he disappeared.
The criminal record of Colbert includes reports about putting men under drugs and exploiting them through fraudulent schemes.
Law enforcement officials pursue additional charges against Colbert after she received charge specifications for fraud and theft until they receive forensic evidence findings.
The death scene of Manzano remains unknown to the public which has left the community disbelieving and grieving.
The year that has passed since both of Eleanor’s parents passed away creates uncertainties for her future. The people of Kansas City along with her colleagues and friends offer their support during this time.
Credit: (Instagram/@adanmanzanoa)
Telemundo staff members intend to preserve Manzano’s memory through institutional tributes which will showcase his impact on sports reporting as well as his enduring legacy.
Through his tragic tale we learn how unpredictable existence can be while showing how single people influence all those near them.
Feature Image Credit: (Instagram/@adanmanzanoa)