Columbia Heights, MN — Officials arrested Jordan Collins Sr., father of 16-year-old Manny Collins, on suspicion of second-degree murder following the discovery of Manny’s body at the Elk River Landfill on June 28.
Manny was last seen alive on May 8 at his father’s home in Columbia Heights. Nearly two months later, his body was found buried in the landfill. The cause of death has not yet been released, but Anoka County Sheriff Brad Wise has confirmed that Manny’s death is being treated as a homicide.
The investigation involved extensive searching of the landfill, with deputies spending approximately 10,000 hours combing the area.
Friends, family, and neighbors gathered recently in Columbia Heights for a vigil honoring Manny and supporting his mother, Ashley Berry. Berry expressed suspicion of Collins Sr. from early on, saying she noticed “100 red flags” and felt that he was not truthful during the search for Manny.
“I have so many emotions,” Berry said. “I feel like there’s justice. I’m praying for the detectives, and I’m hoping justice will be served.”
Manny’s great-grandmother, Mary Berry, also called for justice, lamenting the loss of her great-grandson just before his 17th birthday.
Charges against Collins Sr. are expected to be formally announced soon as the investigation continues.
