Man pleads guilty in Jam Master Jay murder case after 20 years

Jay Bryant pleaded guilty in 2026 to murder charges related to the 2002 killing of Jam Master Jay, admitting to aiding accomplices in the ambush.

Bryant told a judge he helped others gain entry to the building where the fatal shooting occurred in Queens, New York.

Prosecutors confirmed that Bryant's DNA was found on a hat inside the recording studio where Jam Master Jay was shot in the head.

Bryant, aged 52, had initially pleaded not guilty when indicted in 2023 but changed his plea during court proceedings.

Two other men, Karl Jordan Jr and Ronald Washington, were convicted in 2024 for their roles in the killing, though both have challenged their convictions.

A judge overturned Jordan's conviction last year due to insufficient proof of motive.

The killing of Jam Master Jay, a pioneering rap star and member of the influential group Run-DMC, sent shock waves through the music industry.

Prosecutors argued the murder was motivated by greed and revenge linked to a drug deal worth nearly $200,000.

Bryant admitted he knew a gun would be used in the attack and apologized but did not name others involved.

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