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The sports world was rocked this week by the tragic death of Adan Manzano, a 27-year-old rising star reporter for Telemundo Kansas City, who was found dead in his New Orleans hotel room while covering Super Bowl LIX. As authorities scramble to unravel the mystery, a suspect with a history of financial crimes and alleged drugging incidents has been arrested. Here’s an in-depth look at the case, its implications, and the unanswered questions.
1. Overview of the Incident
Adan Manzano, a bilingual sports journalist known for his energetic coverage of the Kansas City Chiefs, was discovered dead in his Comfort Suites hotel room in Kenner, Louisiana, on February 5, 2025, just days before Super Bowl LIX. Police later arrested Danette Colbert, 48, of Slidell, Louisiana, after surveillance footage showed her entering and leaving his room hours before his death. Colbert was allegedly caught using Manzano’s credit card at local stores, sparking a deeper investigation into her potential involvement.
2. Who Was Adan Manzano?
- Background: Born in Mexico City, Manzano moved to Topeka, Kansas, in 2018. He graduated from Kansas State University and joined Telemundo Kansas City in 2021, quickly becoming a fan favorite for his sideline reporting during Chiefs games.
- Family Tragedy: Manzano’s wife, Ashleigh Boyd, a 24-year-old elementary school teacher, died in a head-on car crash in April 2024. The couple leaves behind a 2-year-old daughter, Eleanor.
- Career Highlights: Covered three Super Bowls (2023–2025) and was part of Tico Sports’ Spanish broadcast team. Colleagues praised his professionalism and passion for sports journalism.
3. The Arrest of Danette Colbert: Key Details
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Date of Arrest | February 6, 2025 |
| Charges | Property crimes (fraud, theft); potential upgrade pending toxicology results |
| Evidence | – Surveillance footage of Colbert leaving Manzano’s room – Manzano’s credit card and phone found at her residence |
| Criminal History | Prior arrests for drugging men, theft, and credit card fraud in Nevada and Louisiana |
4. Timeline of Events
- February 2: Manzano arrives in New Orleans, shares excitement on Instagram.
- February 5, 4:00 AM: Colbert enters Manzano’s hotel room; leaves alone minutes later.
- February 5, 12:00 PM: Hotel staff find Manzano dead during a wellness check.
- February 6: Colbert arrested after using Manzano’s credit card at local stores.
- February 7: Police confirm Colbert’s arrest and prior criminal record.
5. Criminal History of the Suspect
Danette Colbert’s alleged crimes span multiple states:
- 2016: Accused of stealing a credit card from a Bourbon Street tourist.
- 2017: Pleaded guilty to access device fraud; sentenced to 3 years.
- 2022: Arrested in Las Vegas for allegedly drugging a man and stealing $50,000.
Police are investigating whether Manzano was drugged, given Colbert’s history of using substances to incapacitate victims.
6. The Investigation: What We Know So Far
- Autopsy Results: No visible trauma; toxicology tests pending.
- Police Statements: “Charges could be upgraded if evidence links Colbert to Manzano’s death” – Chief Keith Conley.
- Community Impact: Telemundo Kansas City and Tico Sports have pledged full cooperation with authorities.
7. Community and Media Reactions
- Telemundo’s Tribute: “Adan was a rising star whose dedication reflected excellence”.
- Social Media Outpouring: Fans and colleagues shared memories using the hashtag #JusticeForAdan.
- Local Businesses: Baton Rouge shops reported increased Super Bowl sales, contrasting the somber mood.
8. FAQs
Q: What caused Adan Manzano’s death?
A: The cause remains unknown. Toxicology reports are pending to determine if poisoning or drugs were involved.
Q: Why was Danette Colbert initially arrested?
A: For fraud and theft after using Manzano’s credit card. Charges may escalate based on autopsy results.
Q: How is Manzano’s daughter coping?
A: Eleanor is now orphaned; family friends have started a fundraiser for her care.
