In a landmark decision that marks the culmination of over two decades of investigation and legal proceedings, two men have been found guilty in the murder case of legendary hip-hop DJ Jam Master Jay, a founding member of Run-D.M.C. The verdict was announced on Tuesday by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of New York, bringing a long-awaited sense of closure to a case that has haunted the music industry and fans worldwide.

Karl Jordan Jr. and Ronald Washington were convicted on all counts related to the 2002 murder of Jason "Jam Master Jay" Mizell. The jury's decision came after two days of deliberation, concluding a trial that shed light on the darker aspects of the late DJ's life, including allegations of involvement in narcotics trafficking. The convicted now face a minimum of 20 years to a maximum life sentence in prison, as stated by U.S. District Judge LaShann DeArcy Hall.

The trial took an unexpected turn when a juror was dismissed following a note from the jury foreman to Judge DeArcy Hall, indicating that the juror frequented a barbershop in Hollis, Queens, close to the crime scene and a focal point during the trial. This development highlighted the intricate connections within the community and the complexities of the case.

Federal prosecutors argued that Jam Master Jay was involved in a cocaine trafficking operation in the mid-1990s, acquiring 22 pounds of cocaine intended for distribution in Maryland. According to authorities, Jay's last-minute withdrawal from the deal led Jordan, Washington, and others to conspire in his murder.

The charges against Jordan and Washington first came to light in August 2020, following their arrest. They were charged with murder while engaged in narcotics trafficking and firearm-related murder. Additionally, Jordan faced charges of conspiracy to distribute cocaine and seven counts of cocaine trafficking.

Another individual, Jay Bryant, who was arrested in May 2023 and charged with murder, is set to face trial in 2026. Prosecutors allege Bryant was present at the recording studio during the murder.

Jam Master Jay was fatally shot inside a Queens, N.Y., recording studio on October 30, 2002. That night, two masked gunmen entered the studio, shooting Jay and another man before fleeing. The incident left the hip-hop world in mourning and marked the beginning of a lengthy investigation into Jay's murder, which was officially declared a cold case in October 2017.

The conviction of Karl Jordan Jr. and Ronald Washington brings a significant chapter in hip-hop history to a close, offering some measure of justice for Jam Master Jay's family, friends, and legions of fans who have awaited answers for over 20 years.