Missing Columbia Heights Teen Jordan "Manny" Collins Jr. Update

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Missing Columbia Heights Teen Jordan "Manny" Collins Jr. Update

Joint Statement from Columbia Heights Police Department and Anoka County Sheriff’s Office

Human Remains Identified as Missing Columbia Heights Teen Jordan "Manny" Collins Jr.; Multi-Agency Investigation Underway

COLUMBIA HEIGHTS, MN – July 1, 2025 – It is with profound sadness that the Columbia Heights Police Department and the Anoka County Sheriff’s Office announce that human remains located over the weekend have been positively identified as Jordan (Manny) Collins Jr., 16, who had been missing since May 8, 2025.

The identification comes after further testing of the remains. Manny Collins Jr. was last seen in the 4900 block of University Avenue Northeast in Columbia Heights. Authorities had previously stated their belief that his disappearance was against his will, prompting an extensive search that recently included a landfill in Elk River. The exact location where Manny Collins Jr.'s remains were found has not been disclosed at this time.

"Our hearts are heavy as we deliver this tragic news," stated a joint press release from the Columbia Heights Police Department and the Anoka County Sheriff’s Office. "We wish to express our deepest condolences to Manny’s mother, his family, and all of his loved ones during this incredibly difficult time. The entire community mourns with them."

The Midwest Medical Examiner’s Office will conduct a thorough examination to determine the cause of death.

This remains an active and intensive investigation. Law enforcement agencies are dedicating every available resource to ensure that justice is served for Manny Collins Jr. The investigation is a collaborative effort involving the Columbia Heights Police Department, the Anoka County Sheriff’s Office, the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension (BCA), and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).

While a person of interest had been previously identified in connection with Manny Collins Jr.'s disappearance, no arrests have been made as of this release.

Local, state, and federal agencies are unified in their commitment to this case, working tirelessly to identify and lawfully apprehend anyone responsible for Manny’s death.

A news conference is scheduled for 10 AM CST later this morning to provide further updates to the community regarding the ongoing investigation. Details of the news conference will be This news conference will be streamed on the Anoka County Sheriff’s Office’s Facebook page.

Media Contacts:

Media Contacts:
Columbia Heights Police Department
Phone: 763-706-8100
Email: Police@columbiaheightsmn.gov

Anoka County Sheriff’s Office
Tierney Peters
Community Relations Coordinator
Phone: 763-324-5006
Email: Tierney.Peters@anokacountymn.gov