MAGNA, UT — After nearly 20 years of searching for answers, police have made an arrest in the 2005 murder of Jason Royter, who was found beaten and stabbed inside his Magna home.
Royter, 33, was discovered in August 2005. While DNA evidence was collected at the scene, it didn’t initially provide a lead. However, in 2024, a reexamination of the evidence led to a positive match through the Combined DNA Index System (CODIS).
With the help of the Utah Bureau of Forensic Services, detectives were able to link the evidence to Mark Nelson Munoz, 53. Munoz, who had a history of being hard to track down due to his transient lifestyle, was arrested after detectives conducted several interviews. He is now facing a first-degree felony murder charge.
“This arrest is a testament to the dedication and commitment of our detectives who never gave up on finding justice for Jason Royter,” said Salt Lake County Sheriff Rosie Rivera. “We hope this brings peace to Mr. Royter’s family, knowing we are closer to uncovering the truth.”
Munoz, reportedly homeless and without regular contact with family or friends, was not easy to locate. His CODIS match came after a separate crime in another state. He remains in custody at the Salt Lake County Jail, held without bail.
For Andrew Royter, Jason’s son, the arrest has been a moment of profound relief. “It’s been a huge relief… I feel so much better. I feel happier,” he said.
As the investigation continues, authorities have not confirmed if there was any relationship between Munoz and Royter. Munoz has reportedly not cooperated with investigators.
This arrest brings closure to a case that had remained cold for nearly two decades, highlighting the perseverance of law enforcement in the pursuit of justice.
