A family in Utah recently received much-needed justice, or at least movement towards it, when a man was arrested in relation to the murder of a 33-year-old father in 2005.

Jason Royter was found dead in his home by his girlfriend, with multiple stab wounds. Authorities labeled the incident a homicide, but due to a lack of leads, the case went cold for almost twenty years until DNA evidence generated a breakthrough. Mark Munoz, 53, was taken into custody earlier this month.

“This arrest showcases the unwavering commitment of our detectives who persevered in their efforts to deliver justice for Jason Royter,” stated Salt Lake County Sheriff Rosie Rivera in a press release. “We hope that this development offers some peace to Mr. Royter’s family, assuring them that we are moving closer to uncovering the truth behind that tragic day.”

“This brings us so much relief,” shared Stephani Perschon, Royter’s sister, during a press conference. “It has been an incredibly long two decades.”

Grief specialists note that families often experience a sense of relief in such situations, but this does not equate to achieving true justice or complete closure.

“For families, the desire for justice is common, but I often explain that true justice isn’t attainable,” says David Kessler, a grief expert and founder of Grief.com. “Justice would mean bringing your loved one back, but we do possess a legal system that can lead us towards peace.”

Understanding ‘Ambiguous Loss’

The Royter family dealt with what is identified as “ambiguous loss.” “Jason Royter’s death was ambiguous because his killer was never apprehended, leaving unanswered questions about how and why he died,” explains Gina Moffa, a licensed clinical social worker and the author of “Moving On Doesn’t Mean Letting Go.” “Without closure or clarity surrounding our loss, we find ourselves in a state of lingering grief. Our nervous systems remain in survival mode since we lack information or time to process, leading to a cycle of questions.”

Moffa emphasizes that everyone requires time to cope with their losses, noting, “However, when a loss is sudden or violent and lacks justice, true grieving and healing are severely hindered.”

Is Closure Possible in Grief?

When faced with the death of a loved one, especially through murder, families commonly seek closure. However, Kessler feels that closure is a complex concept. “I don’t believe in the idea of closure in grief,” he remarks. “That door remains open indefinitely.”

Humans have an innate need for certainty and answers. “With new information available, the Royter family can initiate their healing journey,” states Moffa. “The traumatic layers of their grief connected to such a sudden, incomprehensible loss can now start to transition towards peace and mourning.”

This recent arrest carries a significant message. “While it doesn’t bring their loved one back, it reinforces the idea that his death did not result in a situation without consequences,” Kessler adds. “It affirms that their loved one’s life had value and meaning, and decades later, actions are being taken in response.”