A Louisiana woman has been taken into custody following the death of Telemundo Super Bowl reporter Adan Manzano.
Telemundo Super Bowl journalist dead at 27
Kenner police apprehended 48-year-old Danette Colbert on Thursday evening after surveillance footage reportedly captured her using Manzano’s credit card at several stores in the New Orleans area, where the 27-year-old reporter was covering the Super Bowl.
Authorities have charged Colbert with multiple property-related crimes, including bank fraud, computer fraud, illegal transmission of monetary funds, access device fraud, and purse snatching.
Colbert’s past arrest records reveal a lengthy and troubling history of alleged criminal activity.
She reportedly drugged a man and stole $50,000 from him on the Las Vegas Strip in early 2022, although she denied administering the drugs. Later that year, she faced similar accusations in two separate incidents in May and July.
While the victims of those cases survived, Colbert was also involved in an incident that had her driving 100mph near a school zone in the Las Vegas area the same year.
Additionally, a 2014 report from NOLA.com details previous arrests for second-degree battery and witness intimidation.
Colbert is also said to have previous convictions in Jefferson and Orleans Parish for targeting tourists, using stolen credit cards, and possessing stolen goods.
Police still unsure if Colbert is a suspect
Kenner Deputy Police Chief Mark McCormick acknowledged Colbert’s criminal history when discussing her potential involvement in Manzano’s death.
“Obviously, there are allegations in [Colbert’s] past criminal history that make us consider that. But we don’t have anything at this point,” he said during a press conference.
Investigators disclosed that security footage shows Colbert with Manzano the morning he was last seen alive.
She was observed leaving his hotel a few hours later, and by the afternoon, Manzano was found unresponsive.
Although authorities have not yet confirmed the cause of death, no signs of visible trauma were found on his body.
Officials are awaiting toxicology reports to confirm whether drugging may have factored into the circumstances surrounding his death.
According to Kenner Police Chief Keith A. Conley, the matter remains an active investigation. “You asked if this was a homicide. I don’t know where it’s going to end up,” Conley told reporters. “We’re going to let the evidence lead us to the end result and not speculate.”
Telemundo Super Bowl reporter remembered by network
Manzano, who was in New Orleans on assignment for KGKC, Kansas City’s Telemundo affiliate, and Tico Sports, was remembered as a passionate journalist devoted to his craft.
KGKC issued a statement expressing condolences, stating, “We are saddened to share that Adan Manzano passed away yesterday in New Orleans while on assignment to cover the Super Bowl for both Telemundo Kansas City and Tico Sports.”
Telemundo echoed heartfelt sentiments, stating, “Adan was a true professional and a rising star, who exemplified excellence in his work.”
“We will deeply miss Adan and his passion for sports, and the contributions he made to the local community,” the statement continued. “Our thoughts and heartfelt condolences go out to his family and loved ones during this difficult time.”
This was Manzano’s third time covering the Super Bowl. The Kansas State University became a Chiefs’ sideline reporter for the network in 2024.
This tragedy comes less than a year after the loss of Manzano’s wife, Ashleigh LeeAnn Boyd, who died in a car crash in April 2024. The couple leaves behind a young daughter, Eleanor.
After Manzano’s death was announced Kansas City mayor Quinton Lucas tweeted that the anchor was “so young and fully of energy, and truly covered almost every event in the community.”
“So very sad to see this,” Lucas added. “My condolences to his family and friends.”
