A Louisiana woman, Danette Colbert, has been charged with second-degree murder in the death of sports reporter Adan Manzano. The charges were announced by authorities on Tuesday following an investigation into Manzano’s death, which occurred on February 5 in Kenner, Louisiana, just days before Super Bowl LIX.
- Woman charged with second-degree murder
- Victim Adan Manzano, 27, found dead
- Colbert allegedly drugged and robbed Manzano
- Xanax and alcohol linked to death
- Accomplice Rickey White arrested in Florida
- Prior charges included fraud and robbery
Colbert was reportedly seen with Manzano at his hotel shortly before his death. Police Chief Keith Conley stated that detectives suspect Colbert drugged Manzano using alprazolam to incapacitate him prior to robbing him. This incident follows a pattern consistent with her previous offenses. Surveillance footage confirmed their presence together around the French Quarter leading up to his untimely demise.
The Jefferson Parish Coroner revealed that Manzano died from the combined effects of alcohol and alprazolam along with positional asphyxia. Notably, he had not been prescribed Xanax where he lived, raising questions about how he obtained it. Following the incident, police discovered Xanax at Colbert’s residence.
- Manzano was a 27-year-old sports reporter for a local Telemundo station in Kansas City.
- Colbert had initially faced property crime charges after police found stolen items belonging to Manzano in her home.
- A man identified as Colbert’s accomplice was arrested in Florida and awaits extradition to Louisiana.
This case is currently under active investigation by law enforcement officials who are gathering evidence against both Colbert and her alleged accomplice Rickey White. As the situation develops, further details may emerge regarding their involvement and any additional charges they may face.
The ongoing investigation highlights serious concerns about safety during major events like the Super Bowl and raises awareness about potential criminal activities targeting individuals attending such gatherings.
