A Louisiana woman has been charged with using the credit cards of TV reporter Adan Manzano, who was found dead in his hotel room during his assignment for the Super Bowl. The shocking incident has drawn attention as investigators continue to probe the circumstances surrounding the young reporter’s tragic demise.
Adan Manzano, 27, was discovered unresponsive inside the Comfort Suites hotel room located in Kenner, Louisiana, on February 5, 2025. His death, which came one day before Super Bowl LIX, has left his colleagues at Telemundo Kansas City, where he served as a sports anchor, mourning the loss of what they described as "an exceptional professional and a rising star whose dedication and talent reflected excellence in his work." The station stated, "We will deeply miss Adan, his passion for sports, and the contributions he made to the local community."
Following an investigation, authorities arrested Danette Colbert, 30, of Slidell, Louisiana, on February 7, 2025, after security footage revealed she entered Manzano’s hotel room with him early on the morning of his death and left alone shortly thereafter. Police alleged Colbert used Manzano's credit cards at various stores throughout the New Orleans area.
Kenner Police Chief Keith Conley provided details, stating, "At around 4:30 AM, security video captured Colbert and Manzano together, but by 6 AM, she was seen leaving his hotel room alone and never returned." Conley confirmed the investigation remains active, noting, "It's still unclear how Manzano died, and more tests are pending." So far, authorities reported there were no obvious signs of trauma when his body was found.
Manzano's family and friends are grappling with the loss, especially considering the tragedy of his late wife's death just months prior from a car crash. The couple leaves behind their young daughter, Eleanor.
Colbert, whose criminal history includes multiple charges of drugging men and theft, now faces charges including property crimes, fraud, and theft-related offenses linked to the case. "She is definitely a career criminal," Chief Conley remarked, adding, "Everyone should be aware of their surroundings, especially during major events like the Super Bowl when criminals often prey on unsuspecting victims."
Police executed a search warrant at Colbert's home, where they recovered several items, including Manzano's credit card, cellphone, narcotics, and even a stolen firearm. Authorities believe the stolen gun may not be related to Manzano's death but confirm Colbert's continuous involvement with illicit activities. "Their investigation is still open and they might charge her with additional crimes pending the coroner's findings," Conley indicated.
Colbert's prior arrests depict her as someone who frequented nightlife spots, namely New Orleans's French Quarter, to carry out similar fraudulent schemes. "There's at least two other cases where she drugged men and stole their property," Conley stated, adding urgency to the situation as the community seeks answers.
While the police continue their inquiry, the community remains devastated at the unexpected loss of Manzano and the shadow this incident has cast on what should have been a groundbreaking week for him, covering his third Super Bowl.
Now, as authorities seek justice, they encourage anyone with additional information about the case or Colbert's activities to come forward. The Kenner Police Department warns, "These types of criminal actions can occur anywhere, and awareness is key.”
With the investigation underway, officials expect to release more findings soon. The family of Adan Manzano asks for privacy as they navigate through this painful time, reflecting on the vibrant life taken too soon.