Full Breakdown
Texas Jury Convicts Karmelo Anthony of Murder, Sentences Him to 35 Years
6/11/2026, 3:02:39 AM
Conviction and Sentence
On June 9, 2026, a Collin County jury found 19-year-old Karmelo Anthony guilty of first-degree murder for the April 2, 2025 stabbing of 17-year-old Austin Metcalf at a Frisco high-school track meet. After roughly three hours of deliberation, the jury imposed a 35-year prison term, the maximum possible under Texas law for the offense.
Background & Context
The altercation occurred at Kuykendall Stadium during a rain-delayed meet. Witnesses said Anthony, a Frisco Centennial student, remained inside a tent reserved for Frisco Memorial athletes after being asked to leave about fifteen times. Austin Metcalf allegedly pushed Anthony; Anthony then produced a semi-serrated folding knife from his backpack and stabbed Metcalf in the chest, causing a fatal two-inch heart wound. The trial began June 4, 2026 and concluded with the verdict on June 9.
Data & Statistics
- Defendant age: 19; Victim age: 17.
- Jury deliberation: ~3 hours for verdict, ~3 hours for sentencing.
- Sentence: 35 years (max 99 years).
- Jury composition: white, Asian, Hispanic members; no black jurors.
- Approximate protest size: 200 demonstrators.
Official Statements & Responses
Prosecutor Dewey Mitchell told jurors the case centered on community safety, stating it was not about vengeance or leniency. Defense attorney Mike Howard argued that the “sudden passion” doctrine should apply when a defendant lacks time for reflection. During sentencing, Jeff Metcalf said the loss felt like robbery and expressed anger toward Anthony’s supporters. Kala Hayes, Anthony’s mother, appealed for mercy on behalf of her son.
Criticism & Opposition
Supporters of Anthony protested, chanting “Free Karmelo” and “Power to the people,” and claimed the case had been racist. They argued the all-white, Asian, and Hispanic jury reflected racial bias, noting the absence of black jurors. A Batson challenge was filed alleging discriminatory peremptory strikes; Judge John Roach denied the challenge, accepting the prosecution’s rationale that excluded jurors were educators. Opposing demonstrators held signs reading “Justice for Austin.”
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Some reports emphasize the lack of black jurors, while others describe the panel simply as white, Asian, and Hispanic without noting the absence of black members. Protest size is variably reported as “about 200” or “approximately 200,” reflecting minor inconsistencies.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Racist! Bias!” — Toni Hayes, mother of Karmelo Anthony.
- “Please have mercy on my son.” — Kala Hayes, mother of Karmelo Anthony.
- “We were robbed!” — Jeff Metcalf, father of Austin Metcalf.
- “This whole thing’s been racist!” — protester supporting Anthony.
What’s Next
Anthony will become eligible for parole after serving half of his 35-year sentence. His counsel has signaled intent to file an appeal challenging the jury composition and the rejection of the “sudden passion” defense.
