MINNEAPOLIS — Hundreds of people gathered for the funeral Saturday of a slain 10-year-old boy whose body was found in the Mississippi River.

There were more people than chairs Saturday at Shiloh Temple in north Minneapolis for Barway Collins’ funeral.

Representatives with the church said they had the capacity to seat 1,500 people.

Many attending never met Barway, and more than 18 people and organizations were listed on the program to pay tribute, including Sheriff Richard Stanek.

“This little boy touched every one of our lives, including mine,” Stanek said. “Thank you to the mothers, friends and others who searched for Barway. You never gave up hope and request for the truth.”

At the request of Barway’s biological mother, Louise Karluah, many wore all white. Karluah arrived from Liberia Wednesday. The funeral was postponed until this weekend so she could attend.

Memorial services began Friday evening, with loved ones attending Barway’s visitation.

“I just want to be sure to tell the American government, Liberian women, children thank you. All those who stood by me in my sympathy,” Karluah said.

Barway’s father, Pierre Collins, is in the Hennepin County jail, accused of killing the boy for insurance money. Pierre Collins, who is charged with second-degree murder, has denied any wrongdoing.

Barway was last seen alive getting off his school bus in front of his Crystal apartment March 18. His duct-tape-bound body was found in the Mississippi April 11.