A candlelight vigil and balloon release were held for Jordan “Manny” Collins Jr. on July 3, on the 4900 block of University Avenue NE, the last place he was seen on May 8. His body was eventually found in a landfill in Elk River on Saturday, June 28. Over 100 people came together in solidarity to comfort and cope with the grief over his death. According to Brad Wise, Anoka County Sheriff, 30 different agencies spent almost 10,000 staff hours searching for Collins in four weeks. At the time of writing, Wise stated there is a person of interest in the investigation, but no arrests have been made. According to Columbia Heights Police Chief Matt Markham, an autopsy has been completed, but the cause of death is not yet known.
Toshira Garraway, left, led prayers and gave a speech during the vigil. A saxophonist played a somber tune before the balloons were released in memory of Collins. (Davis Steen)
Attendees were asked to hold hands in prayer while they lit their candles. (Davis Steen)
A photo of Collins was prominently displayed throughout the vigil. (Davis Steen)