Austin Metcalf, 17, Fatally Stabbed by Karmelo Anthony, 17, During Texas High School Track Meet; Families Speak Out Amid Legal and Social Fallout
Austin Metcalf, 17, Fatally Stabbed by Karmelo Anthony, 17, During Texas High School Track Meet; Families Speak Out Amid Legal and Social Fallout
On April 2, 2025, a tragic incident unfolded at Kuykendall Stadium in Frisco, Texas, during a UIL District 11-5A track meet. Seventeen-year-old Austin Metcalf, a standout athlete and student at Memorial High School, was fatally stabbed by Karmelo Anthony, also 17, a senior at Centennial High School. The altercation reportedly began over seating arrangements and escalated when Anthony allegedly pulled a knife from his bag and stabbed Metcalf in the chest. Despite immediate medical attention, Metcalf succumbed to his injuries at the scene. citeturn0news13
The Incident
According to witness accounts, the confrontation started when Metcalf asked Anthony to vacate a seat under Memorial High School’s team tent. The situation escalated when Metcalf allegedly touched Anthony, prompting Anthony to warn him and then draw a knife, fatally stabbing Metcalf. Austin’s twin brother, Hunter, was present during the incident and witnessed the tragic event. Hunter attempted to assist his brother before he was transported to a hospital, where he was pronounced dead. citeturn0search2
Legal Proceedings
Following the incident, Anthony was arrested and charged with first-degree murder. Initially held without bond, his bail was later reduced from $1 million to $250,000, allowing for his release under house arrest with an ankle monitor. Anthony’s defense team claims he acted in self-defense, citing a prior warning from Anthony to Metcalf and alleging that Metcalf touched him first. The case continues to develop, with both families facing significant emotional and financial challenges. citeturn0news12
Family Reactions and Public Response
Austin Metcalf’s father, Jeff Metcalf, has expressed profound grief and forgiveness toward the accused. He emphasized that the incident should not be politicized or used to fuel racial tensions. Jeff described his son as a bright young man with a promising future, noting that Austin had been recruited by college football programs. citeturn0news13
In contrast, Karmelo Anthony’s mother, Kayla Hays, has spoken out about the harassment and threats her family has received since the incident. She denied rumors that the family misused crowdfunding funds, stating they had not received any donations. Kayla emphasized the need for privacy and respect, urging the public to allow both families to grieve and heal. citeturn0news12
Fundraising Efforts
In the aftermath, supporters of both families initiated fundraising campaigns. A campaign for Anthony’s legal defense raised over $431,000, while a separate fundraiser by Metcalf’s father raised more than $350,000 in honor of his son. These funds are intended to cover legal expenses and support the families during this challenging time. citeturn0news12
Community Impact
The incident has left the Frisco community in shock, with many grappling with the loss of a young life and the circumstances surrounding the event. Local schools and organizations have offered counseling services to students and faculty affected by the tragedy. The case continues to draw attention, prompting discussions about safety at school events and the responsibilities of student-athletes.
Conclusion
The fatal stabbing of Austin Metcalf by Karmelo Anthony has profoundly impacted both families and the Frisco community. As legal proceedings unfold, both families are navigating their grief and the public scrutiny that accompanies such a high-profile case. The tragedy serves as a somber reminder of the importance of conflict resolution and the far-reaching consequences of impulsive actions.
