Hip-hop pioneers Run-DMC have been left reeling after Queens native Jay Bryant was formally charged in connection with the 2002 shooting of their beloved DJ, Jam Master Jay.
Ronald Washington and Karl Jordan Jr. were both indicted in August 2020 in connection with the death of the rap icon at the age of 37. Washington had already been incarcerated for a robbery, while Jordan Jr. was imprisoned for shooting Mizell’s nephew. All three now face murder and drug charges. All have pleaded not guilty and are due to face trial in January 2024.
Jam Master Jay, real name Jason Mizell, provided the iconic beats that underpinned the raps of Joseph “Run” Simmons and Darryl “D.M.C.” McDaniels and helped to shape the sound of hip-hop. His death has remained a mystery for nearly two decades.
Court documents filed on Tuesday allege that the three defendants entered the DJ’s studio in Jamaica, Queens at 7:30 p.m. on October 30, 2002. Washington is alleged to have ordered someone in the studio to the ground at gunpoint, before Jordan Jr. shot Mizell twice at close range, fatally hitting him in the head.
Speaking to The Washington Post, Bryant’s lawyer, César de Castro said: “Securing an indictment in a secret grand jury, applying an extremely low burden of proof, is one thing. Proving it at trial is another matter. We remain confused why, after more than 20 years and charging two individuals three years ago, does the government now allegedly think that they have sufficient evidence to charge Mr. Bryant.”
Federal investigators, speaking anonymously to The New York Times, said they believe Mizell was financing a drug operation, and his involvement contributed to his murder.
The hip-hop community has been devastated by the news of the charges, with fans of the legendary Run-DMC left hoping for justice for their fallen hero.
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