A disturbing revelation has emerged in the case of 27-year-old sports reporter Adan Manzano, who was found dead in his New Orleans-area hotel room while covering the Super Bowl. Police in Kenner, Louisiana, have arrested 48-year-old Danette Colbert, a woman with a history of drugging and robbing men, after security footage placed her at the scene.
According to Kenner Police Chief Keith Conley, Colbert was seen on surveillance cameras entering Manzano’s room at 4:30 AM Wednesday. She exited soon after, only to return a second time. By 6:00 AM, she was gone for good. Manzano was never seen leaving his room again. Hours later, hotel staff discovered his lifeless body.
“This woman has a long track record of deception and crime,” Conley said in a press briefing. “She plays a confidence game, gaining trust, then taking advantage of unsuspecting victims.”
Colbert was taken into custody Thursday night and currently faces property crime charges, as she allegedly used Manzano’s credit card multiple times after his death. However, authorities say that could change pending the results of the coroner’s report.
A Troubling Criminal Past
Colbert is no stranger to law enforcement. Reports indicate she was arrested in 2022 for allegedly drugging a man on the Las Vegas Strip and stealing $50,000. Later that year, she faced similar charges in another case. In 2023, she was arrested in New Orleans for allegedly drugging yet another individual.
Beyond her suspected financial crimes, she was caught driving 100 miles per hour near a Nevada school zone in the summer of 2022. When arrested Thursday, she was found in possession of an illegal firearm and narcotics. Though police do not believe the gun was used in Manzano’s death, they have not ruled out the possibility that drugs played a role.
Rising Star’s Life Cut Short
Manzano, a rising star with Telemundo Kansas City, was covering his third Super Bowl. Known for his sharp reporting and enthusiasm, he had spent days interviewing top NFL players like Patrick Mahomes and Travis Kelce. His last social media post, made just days before his death, captured his excitement: “The teams, the emotion, and all the stories surrounding this great event where the Chiefs seek the long-awaited three-time championship begin here.”
Tragedy had already struck Manzano’s family before. Last year, his wife was killed in a car crash, leaving behind their young daughter, who survived with serious injuries. Friends and colleagues describe him as a dedicated father and passionate journalist who was committed to telling powerful sports stories.
“We lost an exceptional talent and an even better person,” Telemundo Kansas City said in a statement. “Adan’s energy, professionalism, and love for the game will never be forgotten.”
Safety Concerns Surrounding Big Events
Chief Conley urged all visitors to New Orleans for the Super Bowl to stay alert. Criminals, he warned, often target tourists and professionals unfamiliar with their surroundings.
“This case is a stark reminder that major events attract predators,” Conley stated. “These individuals look for opportunities to exploit, and it’s crucial that people remain vigilant.”
Authorities continue to investigate Manzano’s death. As the community mourns, questions linger about the true circumstances of his passing—and whether justice will be fully served.
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This is a tragedy. I feel terrible for his daughter and the rest of his family. My heart goes out to them.
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