A woman with a history of drugging men has been arrested in connection to the death of Adan Manzano, a 27-year-old reporter for Telemundo Kansas City. Manzano, who was in New Orleans to cover the Super Bowl, was found unresponsive in his hotel room at the Contempra Inn in Kenner, Louisiana, on Wednesday, according to the Kenner Police Department.
Two days after his discovery, police arrested Danette Colbert on Friday, February 7. Investigators traced her use of Manzano’s credit cards at various stores in the New Orleans area, which led them to track his card activity after finding it missing from both his body and hotel room. Surveillance footage from the hotel revealed Colbert entering the room with Manzano at around 4:35 a.m. and leaving alone later that day.
Colbert, who has a history of drugging men, theft, and fraudulent financial activity, has been charged with property crimes including fraud and theft-related offenses. As of now, the investigation continues, with authorities yet to determine whether the death is classified as a homicide. Colbert remains in custody at Orleans Parish Prison, awaiting further developments.
Police Chief Keith Conley stressed that the investigation is ongoing, and the charges may be upgraded once the coroner’s findings are available. Authorities are calling for anyone with information about Colbert’s involvement to come forward.
Manzano, known for his work as a sideline reporter at KGKC, Telemundo’s Kansas City affiliate, is being remembered as a dedicated professional with a promising career. In a statement, the station described him as a “rising star” and praised his contributions to the community. His tragic passing follows the heartbreaking loss of his wife, Ashleigh LeeAnn Boyd Manzano, who died in a car crash in Topeka, Kansas, less than a year ago.
Manzano leaves behind their young daughter, Eleanor, and a legacy of excellence in his work. His family, friends, and colleagues continue to mourn his untimely death. The investigation into his death is still active, and authorities are working to uncover more details.
