A Texas jury has found Karmelo Anthony guilty of murder in the fatal stabbing of 17-year-old Austin Metcalf during a high school track meet in Frisco. The case drew national attention and sparked heated debate over self-defense, race, and school safety.
Details of the Fatal Stabbing
Prosecutors argued that Anthony intentionally stabbed Metcalf during an altercation near a team tent area at Kuykendall Stadium on April 2, 2025. Metcalf later died at the hospital after suffering a stab wound to the chest.
Emotional Testimony During Trial
During the trial, jurors heard emotional testimony from student witnesses, police investigators, and medical experts. The Collin County medical examiner said the wound pierced Metcalf’s heart and described the injury as unsurvivable.
Defense Claims Self-Defense
Anthony’s defense team claimed he acted in self-defense and called witnesses who testified that athletes often gathered in other schools’ tents during track meets. Defense attorneys also questioned witness accounts and portions of the video evidence presented in court.
Jury Rejects Manslaughter Option
Judge John Roach allowed jurors to consider a lesser manslaughter charge during deliberations, but the jury ultimately returned a guilty verdict for murder.
Sentencing Phase Begins
The case now moves into the sentencing phase. Anthony, now 19, faces a possible punishment ranging from five years to life in prison.
Heightened Security Surrounding Trial
The highly publicized trial brought increased security measures to the courthouse due to threats and public controversy surrounding the case.
