On May 2, 1808, Manuela was only 17 years old. The legendary version of her death says she fought the French, working in the defense of the Artillery Battery at Monteleón, led by Luis Daoíz y Torres and Pedro Velarde y Santillán.
The narrative surrounding Manuela's death emphasizes her bravery and contribution to defending the Artillery Battery at Monteleón during the conflict with the French.