Jam Master Jay’s family found solace after the verdict in his murder trial.
The Run-DMC member – whose real name was Jason Mizell – was murdered in his recording studio in Queens, New York, on October 30, 2002, aged 37.
On Tuesday, the US Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of New York announced in a press release that Mizell’s godson Karl Jordan, Jr., 40, and his childhood friend Ronald Washington, 59, were found guilty of his murder by a federal jury in Brooklyn.
The men are charged with murder while participating in a narcotics-trafficking conspiracy and murder with a firearm. Both face 20 years to life in prison.
Jam Master Jay. Martyn Goodacre/Getty Images Jam Master Jay’s murder trial begins as prosecutors claim killers were motivated by ‘greed and revenge’
The men were arrested in August 2020 and their trial began in January. A third man, Jay Bryant, was charged in connection with the case last year and will be tried separately.
The musician’s family said in a statement shared with PEOPLE that the verdict is the end of a “challenging journey.”
“We express our deepest gratitude to prosecutors, law enforcement officials and all involved in bringing these individuals to justice. Their unwavering commitment has ensured some measure of accountability for the tragic loss of Jam Master Jay,” the statement began.”As we pause to reflect, we remind ourselves to the profound impact and impact Jay had on countless lives. His legacy lives on through his music, his spirit and the fond memories we hold,” the statement continued.
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Members of Run-DMC DMC, Jam Master Jay and Run in 1999.
Bob Berg/Getty Images
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The family said they “remain committed to honoring his memory and celebrating the lasting legacy he left behind” and offered their “sincere thanks” to those who supported them.
“Your love, kindness and unwavering support have been a source of strength in our darkest moments,” they wrote in their statement.
“We ask that you continue to honor Jay’s memory through his music and his positive impact on the world. While the pain of our loss will always remain, we find comfort in knowing that justice has been served,” the statement continued. “Our family believes in God’s plan and that faith is what helped us finish long ago. We thank everyone who continues to support Jay’s legacy by honoring his life’s achievements.”
The official Run-DMC Instagram account said they hope the verdict will “bring some closure to Jay’s family.”
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“Jay will always have a special place in the hearts of all his friends, and all the people he inspired, mentored and gave them a chance. He is the heart and soul of RUN DMC and we will miss him forever,” the post said.
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Source: HIS Education