FRISCO, Texas A Collin County grand jury has officially indicted 18 year old Karmelo Anthony on a first degree murder charge for the fatal stabbing of 17 year old Austin Metcalf during a Frisco ISD track meet earlier this year.
Anthony, who was 17 at the time of the April 2 incident, was arrested shortly after the altercation at Kuykendall Stadium. He has been on house arrest since April 14 after receiving a reduced bond.
If convicted, he faces 5 99 years or life in prison. Under Texas law, 17 year olds are considered adults in the criminal justice system.
District Attorney: “This case struck a deep nerve”
Collin County District Attorney Greg Willis confirmed that prosecutors spent weeks preparing evidence for the grand jury.
“When something like this happens at a school event, it shakes people to the core,” Willis said.
“The justice system works best when it moves with steadiness and principle and that’s what this case deserves.”
He also acknowledged the Metcalf family, asking the community to keep them in their thoughts and prayers.
Victim’s Father Responds: “Justice will be served”
Jeff Metcalf, father of Austin Metcalf, said he is relieved that legal proceedings are moving forward:
“I fully believe justice will be served for Austin. I look forward to the forthcoming trial. But it will never bring my son back.”
Defense Attorney: Anthony May Have Acted in Self Defense
Anthony’s attorney, Mike Howard, released a video statement emphasizing their confidence in the justice process:
“Karmelo and his family are confident the people of Collin County will be fair and impartial.”
“We expect that when the full story is heard, the prosecution will not be able to rule out reasonable doubt that Karmelo acted in self defense.”
The court will assign a judge next, followed by the scheduling of Anthony’s first appearance a process that could take days or months.
Surveillance Video Released by Frisco ISD
Earlier in June, Frisco ISD released surveillance footage capturing the moments before and after the stabbing.
The camera, positioned near the press box, recorded a portion of the field and bleachers:
- The stabbing reportedly occurred under a tent near the 50 yard line.
- People are seen suddenly dispersing immediately after the altercation.
- Paramedics arrived, attempted to reach Metcalf in the bleachers, and later carried equipment into the stands.
- Crime scene tape and a blue tarp were placed in the area where police say the knife was found.
Anthony was taken into custody within minutes.
Anthony’s Statements After Arrest
According to the affidavit, once detained, Anthony immediately told officers:
“I’m not alleged I did it.”
He reportedly stated that Metcalf put his hands on him after being told not to, then later asked officers whether the situation could be considered self defense.
What Happens Next
The case now moves into the court system, where:
- A judge will be assigned,
- A first appearance date will be set,
- And the full trial process will begin.
The timeline remains uncertain, but both families are preparing for a long legal road ahead.