Bourbon Street Hustler Linked to Reporter Death and Other Crimes

Adan Manzano, a 27-year-old reporter from Telemundo based in Kansas City, traveled to New Orleans to cover the Super Bowl and was later found dead in his Comfort Suites hotel room in Kenner, Louisiana. Investigators quickly focused on Danette Colbert, a 45-year-old woman known as the “Bourbon Street Hustler” who has faced multiple charges for fraud, robbery, and fugitive activities. According to police, surveillance footage captured the two entering Manzano’s room early in the morning, suggesting that their encounter was linked to the reporter’s sudden death.

Kenner Police Chief Keith Conley detailed that Colbert is suspected of drugging Manzano and using his credit cards following their meeting in the French Quarter. The investigation revealed that after arriving at the hotel together around 4:30 a.m. on February 5, Colbert left the room shortly after returning from a store run, making her the last person seen with Manzano. This case has stirred additional concerns as authorities are exploring ties to another death incident back in December in New Orleans, with law enforcement collaborating across agencies to uncover all pertinent facts.

Further evidence from a search warrant executed at Colbert's residence led to the discovery of a stolen firearm and narcotics, although these items did not appear directly linked to Manzano’s death. Police reports indicate that Colbert’s modus operandi involves befriending men and then incapacitating them, leaving them vulnerable to financial exploitation. As the investigation continues, more charges against Colbert could emerge while fellow authorities, including state police and representatives from the attorney general's office, gather additional evidence to build a comprehensive case.