Jam Master Jay Murder Trial Nears As Jury Selection Begins For 2 Accused

The unsolved slaying of beloved hip hop legend Jam Master Jay is close to finding closure. After all, jury selection began on Monday at Brooklyn Federal Court in the murder trial of Jason Mizell, known worldwide as Jam Master Jay.

The influential Run-DMC DJ suffered a shot to the head outside of his studio in Jamaica, Queens in 2002

Over the years, numerous theories have circulated regarding Jay’s death. Ranging from issues with the infamous Supreme Team to a drug deal gone bad. However, it seems to be the latter as Karl Jordan Jr., 40, and Ronald Washington, 59, will be on trial for the October 30, 2002 shooting. Moreover, a 10-count indictment unsealed in October, 2020 revealed the motive behind the alleged murder to be 10 Kilograms of cocaine purchased by Jam Master Jay. With the plan being to distribute the drugs between Washington, Jordan Jr. and other co-conspirators.

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Trouble arose over who would help distribute the narcotics. With Washington, known as “Lil D” and the Godson of Jam Master Jay and son to Run-DMC road manager “Big D” excluded from the plans. All in all, Jordan Jr., Washington and Jam Master Jay are from the same Hollis neighborhood, with Jordan Jr. being his neighbor. Equally important, another accused Jay Bryant, who reportedly left behind an article of clothing at the crime scene that contained his DNA, has been charged and will be tried in 2026.

Jam Master Jay in Hip Hop

Jam Master Jay’s death hit the hip hop world hard, as the genre was still recovering from the tragic murder of Tupac and Biggie Smalls. The Hollis, Queens’ native’s legacy is that of a community hero. Known for helping out those in need and for helping budding acts, playing an influential role in the early careers of Onyx and 50 Cent among others. Yet, his death felt as tough one of the genre’s true innovators came to an untimely end.

As a result there were celebratory tributes of his life throughout major award shows for the pioneering DJ. Meanwhile, fans held ceremonial vigils to honor the revolutionary DJ. When the case ran dry rap royalty put together reward money in hopes of finding closure. Opening statements in the trial against Jordan, Jr. and Washington will begin on January 29.