Tragic Death of Sports Reporter Adan Manzano Under Investigation in Louisiana
The death of Adan Manzano, a promising sports reporter from Kansas City, has sent shockwaves through the journalism and sports communities. Manzano, who worked for KGKC Telemundo Kansas City and Tico Sports, was in New Orleans to cover the highly anticipated Super Bowl when tragedy struck. On February 5, 2023, Manzano was found unresponsive in his hotel room in Kenner, Louisiana. Local police immediately launched an investigation into the circumstances surrounding his death, and while the cause and manner of death have not yet been determined, they are exploring a troubling possibility: that Manzano may have been drugged before his death.
Suspect Arrested in Connection with Manzano’s Death
As investigators dug deeper into the case, they identified a person of interest: Danette Colbert, a 42-year-old woman from Slidell, Louisiana. Surveillance footage revealed that Colbert was seen entering Manzano’s hotel room on the morning of February 5. She was reportedly seen leaving and re-entering the room multiple times that morning, raising suspicions. During the execution of a search warrant at Colbert’s residence, police found Manzano’s cellphone and credit card, which were missing from his hotel room. These discoveries led to Colbert’s arrest and subsequent charges of theft, fraud, and other property-related crimes. She is currently being held at the Jefferson Parish Correctional Center, and authorities are working to determine whether additional charges, including more severe offenses, may be applicable.
Colbert’s History of Similar Crimes Raises Concerns
What makes this case even more alarming is Colbert’s history of alleged criminal behavior. According to the Kenner Police Department, Colbert has a history of drugging individuals to facilitate theft. In fact, police have revealed that there were at least two prior incidents—in Nevada and Jefferson Parish, Louisiana—where Colbert was accused of drugging victims and stealing their personal belongings, such as credit cards and other access devices. Since her arrest, the Kenner Police Department has been contacted by multiple individuals who claim to have been victimized by Colbert under similar circumstances. These new complaints are being referred to the appropriate jurisdictions for further investigation, suggesting that Colbert’s alleged crimes may span multiple regions and affect numerous victims.
Evidence and Ongoing Investigation
Investigators are meticulously gathering and analyzing evidence to piece together the events leading up to Manzano’s death. Surveillance footage shows Manzano and Colbert together at his hotel on the morning of February 5, as well as at other locations in New Orleans. Additionally, police have confirmed that Colbert used Manzano’s credit card at several stores in the area after his death. These findings, combined with Colbert’s history of alleged drugging and theft, have led authorities to explore the possibility that Manzano may have been drugged. While toxicology reports are still pending—and could take several weeks to be finalized—police are leaving no stone unturned in their pursuit of the truth.
Awaiting Answers and Seeking Justice
The Kenner Police Department has emphasized that they are taking a thorough and evidence-based approach to the investigation. During a press briefing, Kenner Police Chief Keith Conley stated, “We’re going to let the evidence lead us to the end result and not speculate.” While authorities have not yet classified Manzano’s death as a homicide, they are carefully examining all possibilities. Meanwhile, Colbert remains in custody as she awaits criminal proceedings. It is unclear at this time whether she has retained legal representation.
Remembering Adan Manzano: A Rising Star in Sports Journalism
Amid the ongoing investigation, Adan Manzano is being remembered as a dedicated and passionate sports journalist. His colleagues at KGKC Telemundo Kansas City described him as a “true professional and a rising star” who brought a wealth of enthusiasm and talent to his work. The station released a heartfelt statement, saying, “We will deeply miss Adan and his passion for sports, and the contributions he made to the local community.” Manzano’s death has left a void not only in the journalism world but also in the lives of those who knew him and admired his work.
As the investigation into Manzano’s death continues, the hope is that justice will be served, and that the truth will bring some measure of closure to his loved ones and colleagues. The case also serves as a stark reminder of the importance of vigilance and the need for support for victims of similar crimes.
