A federal jury has delivered a guilty verdict for two men from Queens, Karl Jordan Jr., also known as “Little D” and “Noid,” and Ronald Washington, also known as “Tinard,” in the murder case of Jason Mizell, famously known as Jam Master Jay, a member of the legendary hip-hop group Run-DMC. The verdict, announced by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of New York, found both defendants guilty on all counts related to the Oct. 30, 2002, fatal shooting of Mizell in a recording studio.
Mizell’s murder was a cold-blooded act, as prosecutors described it, stemming from a drug deal gone awry. According to federal prosecutors, Mizell, who had risen to fame as part of Run-DMC in the 1980s, had become involved in cocaine trafficking in the mid-1990s. This involvement led to a tragic end when Mizell was fatally shot by Jordan and Washington.
The trial, which commenced on Jan. 29, saw prosecutors lay out the events leading up to Mizell’s murder. Allegedly, Mizell had acquired a significant quantity of cocaine, and when he decided not to include Washington in the distribution, it led to a conspiracy to kill him. Prosecutors claimed that on the fateful night, Jordan and Washington entered the recording studio where Mizell was and ordered him to the floor. Jordan then fired two shots at close range, with one fatally striking Mizell in the head.
The verdict brought some solace to Mizell’s family and fans, as expressed by U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of New York, Breon Peace. He noted the trauma inflicted by Mizell’s violent death and hoped the verdict would provide closure to those who loved and appreciated him.
Throughout the trial, the defense argued against the lack of physical evidence linking their clients to the crime. They pointed towards a third man who was also charged in the fatal shooting, suggesting his involvement instead. However, the jury’s decision found Jordan and Washington guilty on all counts, including murder while engaged in narcotics trafficking and firearm-related murder.
The case, which had remained unsolved for almost two decades, was credited to the diligent work of detectives, agents, and prosecutors who pursued every lead until arrests could be made. The verdict, while delivering justice, also highlighted Mizell’s contributions to the music industry, particularly within the pioneering hip-hop trio, Run-DMC.
Mizell’s legacy extends beyond his role as Run-DMC’s DJ; he contributed significantly to the group’s unique sound. Songs like “Walk This Way” and “Rock Box” exemplify the impact of Run-DMC’s music, marking milestones in hip-hop history.
As the legal proceedings continue, Mizell’s murder remains a poignant reminder of the enduring influence and tragic loss within the realm of hip-hop music.