NEW ORLEANS (KCTV/Gray News) – A sports reporter in New Orleans covering the Super Bowl has died.

Telemundo KC announced on Thursday that Adan Manzano, 27, an anchor and reporter on assignment to cover Super Bowl LIX, died.

Telemundo described Manzano as a true professional and a rising star who exemplified excellence in his work.

“We will deeply miss Adan and his passion for sports, and the contributions he made to the local community,” Steve Downing, KGKC Telemundo Kansas City General Manager, said. “Our thoughts and heartfelt condolences go out to his family and loved ones during this difficult time.”

Downing said Manzano was found dead in his hotel room and that the media outlet continues to cooperate with law enforcement officials as they investigate what happened.

Manzano, a Mexico City native and Topeka, Kansas, resident earned his degree from Kansas State University. He joined the Chiefs TV crew at the beginning of the 2024 season as a sideline reporter.

Fellow media members have sent messages of condolences while praising Manzano’s work on and off the field since the tragic news of his death.

WIBW reported last April that Manzano’s wife died in a crash in Topeka. She was an elementary school teacher. The couple leaves behind one child, a toddler.

Authorities did not release any further immediate information. The coroner’s office confirmed that an autopsy remains pending.

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