Tragic End to Search for Missing Minnesota Teen: Jordan “Manny” Collins Jr., 16, Found Dead in Landfill; Authorities Launch Homicide Investigation

COLUMBIA HEIGHTS, MINNESOTA — The weeks-long search for a missing teenager has ended in heartbreak. Authorities confirmed on July 1 that human remains discovered in a landfill over the weekend belong to Jordan “Manny” Collins Jr., a 16-year-old boy who had been missing since May 8. The case is now being treated as a homicide investigation, though no suspects have yet been named.

Jordan, a student from Columbia Heights, was last seen on May 8 and officially reported missing on May 12. Since then, his family and the community had held out hope for his safe return. That hope was tragically dashed when investigators found remains during a grueling search at the Waste Management Landfill in Elk River, Minnesota.

A Complex Investigation and a Painstaking Search

Columbia Heights Police Chief Matt Markham and Anoka County Sheriff Brad Wise announced the news during a press conference, revealing the details of what has been a deeply complex and emotional case.

According to officials, investigators received surveillance footage suggesting that Jordan’s body may have been disposed of in a dumpster, which was then collected by a garbage truck and transported to the landfill. That information led authorities to begin an intense search of the site on June 4 — a search that lasted nearly four weeks.

“This is a complex investigation,” Sheriff Wise said. “I think the fact that a four-week search of the landfill illustrates pretty clearly the tenacity of law enforcement in bringing justice.”

The Midwest Medical Examiner’s Office has confirmed the identity of the remains, and the official cause of death is pending further examination. However, Sheriff Wise made clear that the investigation is moving forward as a homicide case.

“Well, a dead body wound up in a landfill,” he said plainly. “So I guess draw your own conclusion — yes.”

A Mother’s Heartbreak

In the days and weeks following Jordan’s disappearance, his mother, Ashley Berry, was a constant presence in the search effort — working with law enforcement, handing out flyers, sharing Jordan’s story on social media, and speaking to reporters in an effort to raise awareness.

“He’s a really good kid,” Berry told KARE 11 before his death was confirmed. “Anybody who’s crossed paths with him knows that he has an old soul.”

In a message on her GoFundMe page, which has raised over $8,000 as of July 1, she wrote:

“Since that day, my life has been turned upside down. Every moment of every day has been focused on finding him — talking to authorities, sharing his story, posting flyers, and following every lead possible.”

Jordan’s death has left a deep scar on his family and the Columbia Heights community, where he was known as a quiet, thoughtful, and kind-hearted teen.

Community in Mourning, Justice Demanded

News of Jordan’s death has sparked widespread grief across the Twin Cities area. Vigils and memorials are being planned, and social media has filled with tributes to a life taken too soon. Friends and strangers alike have expressed their sorrow and anger, urging authorities to bring justice swiftly.

While no arrests have been made, police are asking anyone with information related to Jordan’s disappearance or death to come forward. Investigators believe there may still be individuals who saw something or know more than they’ve shared.

A Life Remembered

Jordan “Manny” Collins Jr. was more than a name on a missing persons flyer. He was a beloved son, a bright young soul with dreams, laughter, and promise. Those who knew him remember a boy who listened more than he spoke, who carried wisdom beyond his years, and who made those around him feel seen.

His tragic death is not just a private family loss — it is a profound communal one, and a stark reminder of the vulnerability many youth face in today’s world.

As investigators continue their search for answers, Jordan’s memory lives on — not just in grief, but in the determination of his family, friends, and an entire community demanding justice. He deserved so much more.