Super Bowl Reporter’s Death Linked to Anti-Anxiety Drug; Suspect Denied Bond -

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Feb 26, New Orleans: A Super Bowl reporter found dead in a New Orleans hotel room earlier his month had Alprazolam, c commonly prescribed anti-anxiety drug sold under the brand name Xanax, in his system despite lacking a prescription, a Jefferson Parish official confirmed on Tuesday. The revelation came during a bond hearing for Danette Colbert, the suspect arrested in connection with the death of Adan Manzano, a Kansas City-based journalist covering the Super Bowl.

According to a detective’s testimony, a preliminary toxicology report detected the drug in Manzano’s body. The same substance was also found at Colbert’s home, the official said. Colbert, 48, has a lengthy criminal history, including allegations of drugging men and stealing tens of thousands of dollars through cryptocurrency and phone-linked accounts. Despite her attorney’s plea not to judge her based on her past, a Jefferson Parish judge deemed Colbert “a danger to society” and denied her bond.

Manzano’s body was discovered on February 5 at a Kenner hotel, west of New Orleans. Security footage showed Colbert entering his room at 4:35 a.m., leaving, and returning before departing for good at 6 a.m. His body was found later that afternoon. Authorities recovered a device believed to be Manzano’s cellphone at Colbert’s residence and alleged she used his credit card at a local store.

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Colbert has been charged with theft and other crimes related to Manzano’s death. However, the detective did not specify the quantity of Alprazolam in Manzano’s system or provide a definitive cause of death. Alprazolam, used to treat anxiety and panic disorders, can also act as a sedative or muscle relaxant. When mixed with alcohol, it poses a significant risk of overdose.

Colbert’s alleged crimes extend beyond this case. She faces charges in at least five other cases across two states, with similar accusations of drugging and theft. Two men visiting New Orleans told NBC News they believe Colbert, posing as an Uber driver, stole thousands of dollars after swiping their phones. Since her arrest, Kenner police have identified at least a dozen additional cases potentially linked to her.

Authorities are also investigating Colbert’s possible involvement in the December death of John Jenkins, a Maryland man found unresponsive in a New Orleans hotel. His death was ruled accidental, attributed to combined cocaine and ethanol toxicity.

As the investigation continues, questions remain about how Alprazolam entered Manzano’s system and its role in his death. The case has cast a spotlight on Colbert’s alleged pattern of criminal behavior, leaving authorities and victims’ families seeking justice.