‘Bourbon Street Hustler’ arrested in connection to Super Bowl reporter’s death linked to Las Vegas drugging

A Tragic Encounter: The Case of Adan Manzano and Danette Colbert

In the vibrant city of New Orleans, during the excitement of Super Bowl LIX, a tragic incident unfolded, overshadowing the event’s euphoria. Adan Manzano, a promising 27-year-old Telemundo reporter from Kansas City, was found dead in his hotel room at the Comfort Suites in Kenner, a suburb of New Orleans. The investigation into his death led authorities to Danette Colbert, a 45-year-old woman with a history of criminal activities, earning her the moniker "Bourbon Street Hustler" on social media. Colbert stands accused of stealing Manzano’s credit card and is now facing multiple charges, including fraud, robbery, and fugitive offenses.

Unraveling the Mystery: The Police Investigation

The Kenner Police Department delved into the case, uncovering critical evidence that implicated Colbert. Security footage revealed Colbert entering Manzano’s hotel room in the early hours of February 5, the day he was found deceased. She was seen leaving the room alone a few hours later. Further investigation disclosed that one of Manzano’s credit cards was missing—the same card used to check into the hotel. This card was subsequently used elsewhere, prompting detectives to track its location, which led them directly to Colbert. Police Chief Keith Conley highlighted that Manzano might have been drugged, a theory supported by similar accounts from other individuals who reported suspicious circumstances under comparable conditions. The police are meticulously examining these cases to identify any patterns or connections.

Colbert’s Criminal Past: A History of Deception

Danette Colbert’s history reveals a pattern of deceit and criminal behavior, particularly in Las Vegas. In January 2022, she was arrested for theft at the prestigious Wynn Las Vegas, where a man alleged that after inviting Colbert and another woman to his room, he awoke to find significant cash and belongings missing. Charged with grand larceny and drug administration, Colbert was released on bond. Similarly, in July 2022, another incident occurred at Encore, another luxury resort, where a man reported waking up to missing items after an encounter with Colbert and another woman. These incidents underscore Colbert’s modus operandi, involving drugging and stealing from her victims, earning her a reputation as a career criminal specializing in confidence tricks and fraud.

The Pursuit of Justice: Evidence and Implications

Police executed a search warrant at Colbert’s residence, recovering the stolen credit card linked to Manzano’s death. Additionally, they found a firearm and narcotics, though these were unrelated to Manzano’s case. Chief Conley emphasized Colbert’s extensive criminal record, noting multiple cases where she exploited personal information and credit cards for fraudulent activities. Her history paints a picture of a calculating individual who preys on vulnerable victims. Colbert is currently held on a $14,500 bond in Jefferson Parish, with potential additional charges pending the outcome of Manzano’s autopsy, which could reveal more about the circumstances surrounding his death.

Remembering Adan Manzano: A Life of Passion and Promise

Adan Manzano’s untimely death has left a void in the lives of his colleagues and loved ones. Telemundo 39 remembered him as a dedicated professional and a rising star in sports journalism, known for his excellence and passion. Manzano’s personal life had already endured tragedy, having lost his wife, Ashleigh Boyd, in a car accident the previous year. His legacy lives on through his contributions to sports reporting and the impact he had on his community, making his loss all the more poignant.

Conclusion: Seeking Justice and Closure

The investigation into Adan Manzano’s death continues, with authorities exploring all possible angles, including the drugging theory and potential links to other cases. Danette Colbert’s history of similar offenses raises questions about how she managed to evade accountability for so long. As the case unfolds, the focus remains on securing justice for Manzano and ensuring that Colbert faces the consequences of her actions. The Kenner Police Department urges anyone with information or similar experiences to come forward, hoping to bring closure to Manzano’s loved ones and prevent future victimization. This case serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities we face and the importance of vigilance in protecting ourselves and others from those who seek to exploit and harm.