Run-DMC’s Jam Master Jay Murder Trial Unfolds: Accused Godson and Associate Stand Trial for Alleged Revenge Killing
More than two decades after the tragic death of Run-DMC star Jam Master Jay, the murder trial has commenced with startling revelations. Karl Jordan Jr, 40, identified as the late DJ’s godson, and Ronald Washington, 59, are currently on trial in New York facing charges of murder.
During Monday’s opening statements, prosecutors presented a chilling narrative, asserting that the accused duo orchestrated an “execution” driven by both greed and revenge. Jam Master Jay, born Jason Mizell, was fatally shot in the head at his Queens, New York recording studio in October 2002 when he was 37 years old.
Jam Master Jay, a pivotal member of the influential hip-hop group Run-DMC, known for hits like “It’s Tricky,” “It’s Like That,” and the collaboration “Walk This Way” with Aerosmith, had advocated against drug culture, even participating in a “Just Say No” public service announcement in 1988. However, prosecutors alleged that Mizell became entangled in cocaine deals as a middleman to sustain his lifestyle and that of those close to him as the group’s music career waned.
Prosecutors claimed that Jordan, who was 18 at the time, and Washington, a friend staying with Mizell’s sister, were excluded from a nearly $200,000 drug deal, leading to their resentment and a subsequent plot to murder the iconic DJ. New York prosecutor Miranda Gonzalez stated to the jury that they were “left with nothing” and sought revenge.
A separate trial for Jay Bryant is scheduled for 2026, with accusations that he facilitated the entry of Jordan and Washington into the studio before the alleged shooting. The court heard that Mizell was murdered in his own music studio by individuals he knew.
Defense lawyer Ezra Spilke countered the prosecution’s account, emphasizing that the accused pair had “no clue who did it” and highlighted the absence of forensic evidence linking Washington to the murder. Spilke questioned the motive behind killing someone on whom Washington depended for shelter and support.
John Diaz, the lawyer representing Karl Jordan, pointed out the evolving narrative over time and noted that some prosecution witnesses had cooperated with federal investigators in exchange for leniency in their own criminal cases.
The trial is anticipated to last four weeks as the court delves into the complex circumstances surrounding the legendary DJ’s untimely death.