Teen Charged in Fatal Stabbing of Texas Track Star Austin Metcalf as Case Moves to Court

Grand Jury Indicts Karmelo Anthony for First-Degree Murder in Tragic High School Incident

A grand jury has indicted 18-year-old Karmelo Anthony on a charge of first-degree murder in the fatal stabbing of Frisco high school track athlete Austin Metcalf. The incident, which occurred during a track meet on April 2, shocked the local Texas community and devastated the families involved.

The indictment marks a critical step forward in the legal process as the case now officially enters the court system. Authorities allege that Anthony, then 17, fatally stabbed Metcalf during a confrontation inside a team tent at Memorial High School in Frisco, Texas. Both teens attended separate Frisco schools — Anthony was enrolled at Centennial High, while Metcalf attended another local campus.

District Attorney Commits to Pursuing Justice

Collin County District Attorney Greg Willis confirmed the indictment and emphasized the state’s commitment to ensuring a fair trial.

“For weeks, my team has been presenting evidence to the grand jury,” Willis stated. “Today, I summarized that evidence and asked the grand jury to return a first-degree murder indictment against Karmelo Anthony — which they did. With that indictment, the case now moves formally into the court system.”

He added that the next steps will be governed by the court, including the trial schedule, and assured the public that the prosecution will be fully prepared when that time comes.

A Father's Grief and Hope for Accountability

Austin Metcalf’s father, Jeff Metcalf, expressed cautious relief over the indictment, while also acknowledging the lasting pain of his family's loss.

“I am pleased that we are moving forward,” he said. “With the first-degree murder indictment, it now goes into the court system. I fully believe that justice will be served for Austin Metcalf. I look forward to the forthcoming trial. But it will never bring my son back.”

Metcalf tragically died in the arms of his twin brother following the stabbing — an image that continues to haunt those close to the case.

Defense Raises Possibility of Self-Defense

Karmelo Anthony’s attorney, Mike Howard, responded to the indictment with a video statement shared on his law firm’s website. Howard described the indictment as “an expected and routine step in the legal process,” emphasizing that nearly every felony case involves an indictment.

He urged the public to reserve judgment until the full evidence is presented during the trial.

“It is only in a trial that the full story can be heard, and that impartial justice can be done,” Howard said. “We expect that when the full story is heard, the prosecution will not be able to rule out the reasonable doubt that Karmelo Anthony may have acted in self-defense.”

What Happened at the Track Meet

According to the police report, the deadly altercation unfolded quickly. Witnesses told police that Anthony retrieved a knife from his bag during a heated exchange with Metcalf and allegedly warned him, “Touch me and see what happens.” Moments later, a witness reported seeing Anthony pull out a knife and stab Metcalf.

Anthony reportedly fled the scene, but was later apprehended by a school resource officer. During the arrest, officers noted blood on Anthony’s left middle finger. In a spontaneous statement documented by law enforcement, Anthony allegedly said, “I’m not alleged, I did it.”

The incident occurred in front of several students and staff members, deeply affecting the Frisco school community.

Current Status of the Case

Following his arrest, Anthony was initially held on a $1 million bond, which was later reduced to $250,000. He has since been released under home confinement as he awaits trial.

No official trial date has been announced. The Anthony family has not issued a public statement following the indictment.

A Community in Mourning

Austin Metcalf’s death has left a lasting impact not only on his family but also on his teammates, coaches, and the wider Frisco community. A standout athlete and student, Metcalf had a promising future ahead. His loss has been described as immeasurable by those who knew him.

As the legal process unfolds, many in the community continue to rally around the Metcalf family, calling for justice while grappling with the heartbreak of a young life cut short.