A woman has been charged with second-degree murder regarding the death of Adan Manzano, a Telemundo sports reporter, according to Louisiana officials on March 18.
Danette Colbert, 48, is accused in the incident that led to the untimely passing of the 27-year-old reporter, as stated by Kenner Police Chief Keith Conley. Manzano, who was in New Orleans for the Super Bowl, died on February 5. Shortly after his death, Colbert was charged with fraud and theft for allegedly using Manzano’s credit card without permission.
Surveillance footage showed Colbert leaving Manzano’s hotel alone shortly after they arrived together on the night he died. The Jefferson Parish Coroner, Gerry Satanovich, reported that Manzano’s death was caused by the combined effects of Xanax and alcohol, with his body found in a face-down position.
Although Colbert faces a murder charge, the manner of Manzano’s death is still listed as undetermined, allowing prosecutors to proceed with the case. It remains unclear when or where he consumed the drug, as he had no prescription for Xanax prior to his death.
Colbert was not previously familiar to Kenner police, but Conley mentioned that investigators in New Orleans had knowledge of her history. “She is regularly seen in the French Quarter and is known for her fraudulent activities,” he said.
Colbert reportedly has a history of drugging and stealing from men in various locations. During a press conference, Conley expressed a strong desire to keep Colbert imprisoned, stating, “We don’t want Ms. Colbert to see the light of day again.”
Authorities have also arrested Ricky White, who is believed to be Colbert’s accomplice. Described as a transient with ties to Gretna, White was apprehended in Hollywood, Florida, and is facing charges of robbery and fraud. Police noted that communication between Colbert and White suggested they worked closely together.
Manzano was in his third year as a reporter for Telemundo KC, covering the Kansas City Chiefs at the Super Bowl. His employer described him as a talented and dedicated professional, expressing deep sorrow over his loss.
Originally hailing from Mexico City, Manzano moved to Topeka, Kansas, in 2018 and graduated from Kansas State University. He had recently joined the Chiefs Television Crew as a sideline reporter and also worked as a play-by-play announcer for local soccer games.
Tragically, Manzano’s wife, Ashleigh LeeAnn Boyd, died in a car accident the previous year, leaving behind their daughter, Eleanor, who survived the crash.
