Super Bowl Reporter Found Dead in Hotel Room ‘Wanted to Be the Best Parent’ to Daughter After Wife’s Death (Exclusive)

Super Bowl Reporter Adan Manzano ‘Wanted to Be the Best Parent’ (Exclusive)

Adan Manzano, a well-known sports reporter and anchor from Kansas City, was tragically found dead in his hotel room in New Orleans while covering the 2025 Super Bowl. The 27-year-old reporter, who worked for Telemundo KC and Kiko Sports, had a heartfelt desire to be a dedicated single parent to his daughter following the devastating loss of his wife. Manzano’s wife, Ashleigh LeeAnn Boyd, had passed away in a car accident about a year before his own untimely death, leaving him to raise their daughter Eleanor on his own.

Steve Downing, the general manager of Telemundo Kansas City, shared that the transition to single parenthood and the grief of losing his wife took a toll on Manzano. Nevertheless, Manzano was determined to be the best parent he could be, especially in the absence of Eleanor’s mother. Downing described how Manzano cherished the time spent with his daughter whenever he was not working on assignments, highlighting his commitment to fatherhood amidst challenging circumstances.

Hailing from Mexico City, Manzano was a graduate of Kansas State University who had recently joined the Chiefs television crew as a sideline reporter. Downing praised Manzano’s dedication to his work, noting his ability to connect with the audience and deliver compelling sports stories. He also shared a motto that Manzano lived by, translating to ‘Don’t be afraid of success,’ which reflected his fearless attitude towards his career and life.

While the cause of Manzano’s death remains under investigation, authorities have ruled out any obvious signs of trauma to his body. In a shocking turn of events, a woman named Danette Colbert was arrested and charged with fraud and theft-related offenses after allegedly using Manzano’s credit card at various stores in New Orleans. Police revealed that Colbert had been seen on hotel security footage accompanying Manzano to his room before leaving alone later that day.

The investigation into Manzano’s death is ongoing, with Colbert’s past involving allegations of drugging men, theft, and fraudulent use of credit cards coming to light. This disturbing development adds another layer of tragedy to the loss of a dedicated reporter and loving father. The community and Manzano’s colleagues have been left reeling from the news, mourning the loss of a talented individual who had a bright future ahead of him.

The legacy of Adan Manzano as a passionate reporter and devoted parent lives on through the memories of those who knew him. His impact on the sports journalism industry and his commitment to his role as a father serve as a reminder of the importance of perseverance and dedication in the face of adversity. As the investigation continues and more details unfold, the memory of Adan Manzano will remain in the hearts of those who were touched by his kindness, professionalism, and unwavering love for his daughter.