The sports media community was shocked when 27-year-old Adan Manzano, a sports anchor and reporter for Telemundo 39 in Kansas City, was found dead while on assignment in New Orleans for Super Bowl LIX. Almost two months later, two arrests have been made in connection with his death.
Danette Colbert, seen on video with Manzano shortly before he died in his hotel room, was charged with second-degree murder, which could lead to a mandatory life sentence without parole if convicted. Surveillance footage captured Colbert leaving the hotel room soon after entering with Manzano, whose body was discovered 12 hours later during a wellness check by hotel staff. She was arrested two days later with his cellphone and credit cards and charged with related property crimes.
Colbert has a criminal history “that includes allegations of drugging men, theft of currency, fraudulent use of credit and debit cards, and other financial crimes,” said Kenner Police Chief Keith Conley. Several men claiming Colbert drugged and robbed them recently spoke with the New York Times about their experiences.
Results from Manzano’s autopsy were revealed, indicating he died from the combined effects of Xanax and alcohol, as well as “positional asphyxia,” according to Jefferson Parish coroner Dr. Gerry Cvitanovich, who mentioned that Manzano’s blood alcohol level was nearly three times the legal limit. His death remains undetermined as either homicide or accidental overdose due to the “uncertain circumstances” surrounding the case.
An additional suspect, Rickey White, was also charged in this case. Court records show White is facing charges related to simple robbery, access device fraud, illegal transmission of monetary funds, bank fraud, and computer fraud. He was arrested in Hollywood, Florida, and is now awaiting extradition to Louisiana from Fort Lauderdale.
Tico Sports, an outlet Manzano worked with, expressed their sentiments in a statement: “Today’s news is another step in the pursuit of justice for Adan. We continue to grieve his loss and stand with his family, friends, and colleagues as the legal process moves forward. We trust in the justice system and remain focused on supporting our team through this difficult time. Out of respect for the ongoing proceedings and family, we will not be making further comments at this time.”
Compounding this tragedy is the fact that Manzano’s death came just 10 months after the loss of his wife in a car crash, which left their one-year-old daughter, now the sole survivor of both parents.
