Full Breakdown
Karmelo Anthony Sentenced to 35 Years for Fatal Stabbing of Austin Metcalf
6/13/2026, 4:27:52 AM
Fatal Stabbing at Frisco Track Meet
On April 2 2025, at a Frisco high-school track meet, 17-year-old Karmelo Anthony (Centennial High) fatally stabbed 17-year-old Austin Metcalf (Memorial High). Witnesses said Metcalf told Anthony to leave a tent; Anthony replied, “Touch me and see what happens,” then stabbed Metcalf in the chest, causing his death.
Legal Proceedings and Sentencing
Anthony was charged as an adult. A Collin County jury deliberated three hours on June 9 2026, convicting him of first-degree murder and rejecting a “sudden passion” defense that could have lowered the charge. Judge John Roach Jr. imposed a 35-year term, the statutory maximum, and Anthony filed an appeal the next day, citing indigence.
Fundraising and Financial Aftermath
The GiveSendGo “Help Karmelo Anthony Official Fund” raised about $630,000, exceeding its $1.4 million goal. After the conviction, the platform closed the campaign, stating its pre-trial purpose was fulfilled. A new fundraiser later launched, supported by activist Dominique Alexander.
Official Statements & Responses
Judge Roach said he “sleeps well at night” and affirmed confidence in the jury’s decision. District Attorney Greg Willis praised the prosecution and declared “justice was served.” Jeff and Meghan Metcalf delivered victim-impact statements, describing Austin as a “peacemaker” and likening the sentence to a “life without my son.” Kala Hayes pledged continued advocacy for Anthony.
Criticism & Opposition
Rapper Cardi B denounced the sentence as an example-making exercise. Protesters highlighted the all-White jury, with the Next Generation Action Network calling the trial “flawed, unjust.” Social-media debates framed the case as racially charged, with some asserting the outcome would differ if the victims’ races were reversed.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Prosecutors and Jeff Metcalf described the case as “race-neutral,” yet multiple reports note the absence of Black jurors and accusations of bias from community advocates. GiveSendGo announced the original fundraiser’s closure, while other outlets reported a new campaign. The judge’s camera ban, defended as a fairness measure, drew criticism for limiting transparency.
Broader Implications
The case underscores ongoing debates over adult prosecution of juveniles, the influence of jury composition on perceived fairness, and the role of online fundraising in high-profile criminal proceedings.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Jeff Metcalf said “this was never about race or politics” and emphasized that “We’re all humans.” — Jeff Metcalf
- “this was never about race or politics” — Jeff Metcalf
- “Wow! Just freakin wow! DISGUSTING… This is not justice, this is trying to make an example!!!” — Cardi B
- “I'm not alleged, I did it,” — Karmelo Anthony
- “is murder, murder, murder,” — Bill Wirskye
What’s Next
Anthony’s appeal is pending; the court will determine whether to appoint counsel. Under Texas law, he may be eligible for parole after serving half of his sentence, approximately 17½ years.
