Karmelo Anthony, age 17, from Texas, has been officially charged with first-degree murder. The charges come after he allegedly fatally stabbed fellow teenager Austin Metcalf, age 17, during a high school track event in Frisco on April 2. The 2, 17-year old boys allegedly had a disagreement about seating during the event, which escalated to violence.
Anthony has admitted to participating in the incident but claims he was acting in self-defense while legally, Anthony's attorney stated that Anthony was threatened and had no choice. The case has drawn attention mostly because it happened at a school sporting event and two teenagers were involved but is noteworthy for the nature of the crime. The district attorney from Collin County stated the grand jury's decision to indict was based on "clear and convincing" evidence.
If convicted, Anthony could be sentenced to life in prison. The case will now proceed through the court system and both families as well as the public will pay close attention.
Texas teen Karmelo Anthony indicted on first-degree murder charge in stabbing death of Austin Metcalf, 17 https://t.co/q6ixfWiLY3 pic.twitter.com/4o16Dq2OmT
— New York Post (@nypost) June 24, 2025
Bond, Release Conditions, and Legal Defense Raise Questions
Anthony was arrested shortly after the incident. While his bond was initially set at $1 million, a judge later lowered it to $250,000, noting his family’s financial limitations. He has since been released from jail and is now staying with relatives in a gated community in Frisco.
This release has sparked strong public reaction, with some questioning whether similar treatment would be given in other cases.
Meanwhile, Anthony's defense team has launched a legal fund, which has already raised more than $530,000. His attorney, Mike Howard, says they believe the full story will prove Anthony was acting in self-defense.
They plan to present evidence to support this claim during the trial.
Prosecutors, however, say the facts of the case support a murder charge. The outcome now depends on how the evidence is presented and interpreted in court.
The case remains one of the most closely watched teen crime trials in Texas this year.
