Human remains identified as missing Columbia Heights teen

Authorities in Anoka County announced early Tuesday that human remains found over the weekend have been identified as those of a Columbia Heights teenager who went missing in May.

Manny Collins was reported missing from Columbia Heights in May. Authorities said Tuesday that his remains were found over the weekend.

Courtesy of Anoka County Sheriff's Office

16-year-old Jordan Collins Jr. — known as Manny — had been last seen on May 8. Authorities had said they believed his disappearance was against his will.

Local, state and federal agencies had been searching an Elk River landfill in recent weeks, in connection with the case.

Tuesday’s news release from the Anoka County Sheriff’s Office and Columbia Heights Police Department did not say where the human remains were found. The cause of death remains under investigation.

The sheriff’s office had previously said there is a person of interest in the case, but there have been no arrests at last report.

“We wish to express our condolences to his mother, family, and

loved ones during this tragic time,” the sheriff’s office and police department said in Tuesday’s news release. “Local, state, and federal agencies all want to ensure that justice is served. Every available resource is being directed toward the lawful arrest of anyone responsible for Manny’s death.”

A news conference on the case is scheduled for later Tuesday morning.