Full Breakdown
Murder Conviction at Frisco Track Meet
6/11/2026, 4:01:01 AM
Core Event
A Collin County jury convicted Karmelo Anthony of murder for the April 2, 2025 stabbing of 17-year-old Austin Metcalf at a Frisco high-school track meet. The verdict was read on June 9, 2026, and Anthony received a 35-year prison term.
Background and Legal Context
Anthony, a Centennial High School student, sat under a Memorial High School tent when Metcalf asked him to leave. Witnesses said the exchange grew heated. Anthony warned “Touch me and see what happens,” then stabbed Metcalf in the chest with a pocket knife. Texas law allowed charging Anthony, 17, as an adult.
Key Participants
- Karmelo Anthony – Defendant, 19 at sentencing.
- Austin Metcalf – Victim, 17, Memorial High School student.
- Kayla Hayes – Anthony’s mother.
- Jeff Metcalf – Father of Austin Metcalf.
- Bill Wirskye – Prosecutor, Collin County DA’s Office.
- Mike Howard – Defense attorney.
- Judge John Roach Jr. – Presiding judge.
Timeline
- April 2, 2025 – Stabbing at track meet.
- June 1, 2026 – Jury selection.
- June 9, 2026 – Verdict, sentencing; deliberation lasted ~3 hours.
- June 10, 2026 – Anthony filed a notice of appeal.
Data Summary
The prosecution called 21 witnesses; the defense added eyewitnesses. The jury considered manslaughter but returned a murder conviction. The sentencing range is 5–99 years; Anthony received 35 years.
Impact
The case sparked debate over self-defense claims, highlighted concerns about jury racial composition, and prompted reviews of school-event safety protocols.
Official Statements
District Attorney Greg Willis said “justice was served” and emphasized safety. Judge Roach noted the jury could have chosen manslaughter but did not. Kayla Hayes said her family faced targeting before trial.
Criticism and Opposition
Civil-rights groups criticized the all-White jury. Rapper Cardi B called the 35-year sentence “disgusting” and suggested the prosecution aimed to set an example.
Conflicting Reports
Witnesses disagreed on whether Metcalf’s contact was a shove or a grab, the number of hands used, and the exact warning Anthony gave. The defense called the warning a bluff; prosecutors called it a pre-meditated threat.
Verbatim Quotes
- “please have mercy on my son.” — Kayla Hayes, mother of Karmelo Anthony
- “I’m just not so sure we’re going to hear a life sentence here.” — Donna Rotunno, criminal-defense attorney
- “You may have just been given a sentence of 35 years, you should feel lucky because I've been sentenced to a life without my son.” — Meghan Metcalf, mother of Austin Metcalf
- “You failed your parents, yourself, and society. You don't belong in this community,” — Jeff Metcalf, father of Austin Metcalf
Next Steps
Anthony’s appeal will be heard by the Texas Court of Criminal Appeals. The Next Generation Action Network plans to monitor the appellate process, and local school districts are reviewing safety policies for future events.
