A Louisiana serial fraudster known as the "Bourbon Street Hustler" faces serious charges following the death of a 27-year-old sports journalist.
According to the New York Post, Danette Colbert now faces a second-degree murder charge in connection with the death of Telemundo correspondent Adan Manzano, who was found dead in a Kenner, Louisiana hotel room while in town to cover the Super Bowl.
Police have also arrested an alleged accomplice named Ricky White, described as a "transient" who authorities believe worked with Colbert to steal Manzano's identity and make unauthorized purchases around New Orleans. The investigation has revealed security camera footage showing Colbert entering a Comfort Inn Suites with Manzano and later leaving alone before returning and departing again on the day of his death.
Toxic combination led to reporter's death
While the exact cause of Manzano's death remains under investigation, a toxicology report discovered high levels of Benzodiazepine, commonly known as Xanax, in the reporter's system. This finding has raised serious concerns among investigators about how the substance entered his body.
The combination of Xanax and alcohol creates what medical experts call a "blackout cocktail," which can prove lethal. Jefferson Parish Coroner Gerry Cvitanovich noted that Manzano was found face-down on a pillow, suggesting he may have asphyxiated after being drugged.
Police later discovered the same drug at Colbert's residence, further connecting her to the crime. Manzano's cell phone and credit card were missing when his body was found, with authorities alleging that Colbert and White subsequently used the stolen credit card to make purchases throughout New Orleans.
History of similar criminal activity
Kenner police chief Keith Conley told reporters about the working relationship between the two suspects, stating:
We found correspondence and information where [Colbert and White] were going back and forth. We think they were working hand-in-hand, in concert.
This isn't Colbert's first brush with the law. She has earned the nickname "Bourbon Street Hustler" due to her extensive criminal history, which includes multiple fraud and theft cases. At least two previous schemes allegedly involved drugging men, establishing a pattern that prosecutors will likely highlight in the murder case.
Conley previously described Colbert's criminal background when announcing her initial arrest last month. Her record includes numerous confidence schemes, access device fraud, and robbery operations across the region, making her well-known to law enforcement in the area.
Authorities apprehended White in Hollywood, Florida on Friday. He currently awaits extradition from Fort Lauderdale to face charges in Louisiana related to Manzano's death and the subsequent identity theft.
Tragic end for young journalist
Adan Manzano, known for his work as a sports correspondent for Telemundo, traveled to New Orleans to cover the Super Bowl when his life was cut short. His death occurred just days before he was scheduled to report on one of the biggest sporting events of the year.
The 27-year-old journalist was remembered by colleagues as a dedicated reporter with a promising career ahead of him. His death has shaken the sports journalism community, particularly among Hispanic media outlets where Manzano had built a reputation for his professional coverage.
The case highlights the dangers that can arise while traveling for work, particularly in unfamiliar locations. Manzano's colleagues have expressed shock and sadness that what should have been a career-defining assignment ended in such tragedy.
