Rickey White Arrested as Second Suspect in Murder of Telemundo Reporter Adan Manzano, Found Dead While Covering Super Bowl in New Orleans
New Orleans, LA –
Authorities in Louisiana have announced the arrest of a second suspect in connection with the tragic death of Adan Manzano, a 27-year-old sports reporter for Telemundo Kansas City, who was found dead while covering Super Bowl LIX in New Orleans. This development follows the initial arrest of one individual earlier in the case, and the investigation into Manzano’s death continues to unfold, drawing significant attention from both the media and the public.
The crime occurred on February 5, 2025, when Manzano’s body was discovered in his hotel room in Kenner, Louisiana, a suburb just outside New Orleans. Manzano had traveled to the city to report on Super Bowl-related events but became the victim of a shocking and violent crime. Authorities quickly linked the case to a robbery scheme and determined that Manzano’s death was the result of suffocation after ingesting alcohol and Xanax, a drug for which he had no prescription. His tragic death has sparked a nationwide outpouring of grief and a renewed conversation about the dangers faced by journalists while working in high-risk environments.
On Monday, Louisiana officials announced that Rickey White, 34, was arrested in Florida and extradited to Louisiana to face charges in the murder of Adan Manzano. White is now facing charges of second-degree murder, conspiracy to commit murder, and obstruction of justice. According to investigators, White and Danette Colbert, 48, who was arrested earlier in connection to the case, were involved in a scheme to drug and rob victims across multiple jurisdictions.
Authorities believe that White and Colbert targeted Manzano after he arrived in New Orleans, planning to drug and rob him. Investigators found that their communication records indicated prior coordination. The investigation has revealed that Colbert and White were allegedly involved in a years-long crime spree, targeting victims through a method of drugging and theft. Both individuals face a range of charges, and prosecutors have indicated that further charges may be forthcoming as new evidence is uncovered.
Manzano, who had become a respected figure in the world of sports journalism, was remembered by colleagues and friends for his dedication to reporting and his passion for covering sports. His tragic death has sent shockwaves through the journalism community, highlighting the risks reporters face, even in seemingly safe assignments.
In the wake of his passing, media organizations and colleagues have rallied in support of Manzano’s family and expressed solidarity with the press community. The Society of Professional Journalists (SPJ) and other advocacy groups have condemned the violence and called for greater protections for journalists working in high-profile and potentially dangerous situations.
“Adan was more than just a reporter—he was a passionate storyteller, a friend, and a vital member of the sports journalism community,” said a colleague from Telemundo Kansas City. “His loss is immeasurable, and we stand together with his family as they cope with this unimaginable tragedy.”
Authorities are continuing their investigation into the circumstances surrounding Manzano’s death. Law enforcement officials are urging anyone with additional information to come forward, as they work to bring justice for the young journalist and his loved ones.
As the case unfolds, the families of both suspects and victims are grappling with the aftermath of the horrific events. The city of New Orleans, still reeling from the loss of a promising life, continues to honor Manzano’s memory with tributes from friends, family, and colleagues.
The investigation is ongoing, and further updates will be provided as new details emerge.
For those looking to support the family during this difficult time, a memorial fund has been established.
Donations can be made online at:
www.adanmanzanomemorialfund.com