NEW ORLEANS, LA — A shocking development has emerged in the investigation into the tragic death of 27-year-old Kansas City reporter Adan Manzano, who was in New Orleans on assignment to cover Super Bowl events. Authorities have arrested 39-year-old Danette Colbert, a Slidell resident with an extensive criminal history, after police discovered she was allegedly using Manzano’s credit card at multiple locations throughout the city.

Manzano, a rising journalist and anchor for Telemundo KC, was reported missing earlier this week before authorities confirmed his death. While law enforcement has not yet publicly disclosed the exact cause of death, investigators are actively piecing together the final hours leading up to the reporter’s demise.

On Friday morning, February 7, Kenner Police Department (KPD) announced Colbert’s arrest, revealing that surveillance footage and credit card transaction records led authorities to the suspect. Colbert has a history of financial-related crimes, including drugging men, theft, and fraudulent use of credit cards.

This disturbing case has sent shockwaves through both the journalism community and the Kansas City area, where Manzano was a well-known figure. As new details continue to emerge, authorities are urging the public to come forward with any relevant information.

Expanding the Investigation: How Did Adan Manzano End Up in Danette Colbert’s Crosshairs?

Authorities believe that Colbert may have targeted Manzano specifically and could be involved in a wider criminal operation. Law enforcement officials have stated that her previous charges include drugging men before robbing them, often using stolen credit cards in the aftermath. It remains unclear how she first encountered Manzano or whether his death was intentional or incidental.

Investigators are now reviewing security footage, interviewing witnesses, and examining Manzano’s movements prior to his death. His colleagues at Telemundo KC stated that he was enthusiastic about covering Super Bowl-related events in New Orleans, but concerns arose when he failed to check in with his team as scheduled.

Danette Colbert’s Criminal History Raises Major Questions

Colbert, who has been arrested multiple times over the past decade, has a well-documented record of preying on individuals in similar situations. In previous cases, victims have described waking up disoriented, missing cash and valuables, with no memory of the hours leading up to the incident.

Records from the New Orleans Police Department (NOPD) show that Colbert has been charged with financial fraud, theft, drugging unsuspecting victims, and unauthorized credit card usage. However, despite multiple arrests, she has repeatedly avoided lengthy prison sentences, either due to plea deals or insufficient evidence in past cases.

Authorities are now investigating whether Manzano’s death was part of a deliberate scheme or if an altercation between him and Colbert led to unintended consequences.

Telemundo KC Mourns the Loss of a Promising Journalist

As news of Manzano’s passing spreads, colleagues, friends, and viewers in Kansas City are expressing their shock and heartbreak. Telemundo KC issued a statement mourning the loss of their talented anchor and reporter, calling him a bright star in the field of journalism.

“Adan was more than a journalist—he was a passionate storyteller, a friend to many, and a rising voice in the industry. His loss is devastating to all of us at Telemundo KC. We extend our deepest condolences to his family and loved ones.”

Manzano, originally from San Antonio, Texas, had been building his career as a bilingual journalist. He was known for his dedication to covering underrepresented communities and had recently been promoted within Telemundo’s Kansas City newsroom.

Surveillance Footage Shows Colbert Using Manzano’s Credit Card

Law enforcement officials confirm that surveillance footage from multiple locations captured Colbert using Manzano’s credit card after his death. This crucial evidence led to her arrest in Slidell, Louisiana, a suburb approximately 30 miles from downtown New Orleans.

Police have not yet confirmed when or where Manzano was last seen alive, but they are currently reviewing hours of security footage from bars, restaurants, and hotels in the French Quarter, where he was believed to have been staying.

“We are diligently investigating how the suspect came into contact with Mr. Manzano and whether this was a premeditated act,” said Detective Jonathan Boudreaux of the Kenner Police Department. “Our primary focus is determining whether additional individuals were involved and ensuring justice for the victim and his family.”

Timeline of Events: Piecing Together the Final Hours of Adan Manzano’s Life

While authorities are still piecing together an exact timeline, preliminary reports suggest the following:

• February 4: Adan Manzano arrived in New Orleans to cover Super Bowl-related events on behalf of Telemundo KC. He checked into his hotel near the French Quarter and was last seen communicating with colleagues that evening.
• February 5-6: Manzano failed to check in with his newsroom, prompting concerns. Attempts to contact him went unanswered.
• February 6: Authorities received reports of suspicious activity related to Manzano’s credit card, leading them to Danette Colbert.
• February 7: Colbert was arrested in Slidell, Louisiana, after being caught on surveillance cameras using Manzano’s stolen credit card at multiple stores.
• Ongoing: The cause of Manzano’s death remains under investigation, with authorities awaiting autopsy results.

Authorities Urge Witnesses to Come Forward

With the investigation still ongoing, law enforcement officials are urging anyone who may have seen Manzano in New Orleans between February 4-6 to contact the authorities.

“This case remains open and active, and we are pursuing all leads,” stated Kenner Police Chief Danny Waguespack. “We urge anyone who may have interacted with Mr. Manzano or witnessed any suspicious activity to reach out.”

Possible Homicide Charges Loom for Colbert

At this time, Colbert is being held on financial crime charges, but authorities are not ruling out additional charges, including homicide. Detectives are awaiting toxicology reports and a full autopsy to determine if Manzano was drugged before his death—a pattern consistent with Colbert’s past offenses.

“If we find evidence that Mr. Manzano was deliberately drugged or harmed, additional charges will be filed immediately,” said Detective Boudreaux.

A Growing Concern for Tourist Safety in New Orleans

Manzano’s death has reignited concerns about safety for visitors in New Orleans, particularly for those who travel alone. The city, known for its vibrant nightlife, has seen an increase in reported crimes involving unsuspecting tourists being drugged and robbed.

Local businesses and tourism officials are now calling for heightened security measures ahead of Super Bowl weekend, urging visitors to remain vigilant and travel in groups.

What Happens Next?

• Colbert remains in custody in Louisiana as investigators work to determine her full involvement in the case.
• Manzano’s cause of death is still pending autopsy results, which could determine whether foul play was involved.
• Authorities are continuing to gather evidence, including reviewing additional surveillance footage and questioning witnesses.

As the investigation unfolds, one thing remains clear: the tragic loss of Adan Manzano has left a profound impact on those who knew him. His legacy as a dedicated journalist will not be forgotten, and those responsible for his untimely death will be brought to justice.

Anyone with information related to this case is urged to contact the Kenner Police Department at (504) 712-2222 or Crimestoppers at (504) 822-1111.