McKinney, Texas — A Collin County jury has found Karmelo Anthony, 19, guilty of the murd3r of Austin Metcalf, 17, following a highly publicized trial stemming from a fatal confrontation during a high school track meet in Frisco, Texas.
The incident occurred on April 2, 2025, when Austin Metcalf, a student-athlete from Memorial High School, became involved in an argument with Karmelo Anthony, a student from Centennial High School, inside a team tent during the compeтιтion.
Prosecutors argued that the confrontation quickly escalated, ending with Austin Metcalf suffering a f4t4l kn1f3 injury.
During the sentencing phase, Kala Hayes, the mother of Karmelo Anthony, addressed the jury through emotional testimony.
She said her son was remorseful for what happened and expressed hope that he would one day have the opportunity to return home and rebuild his life.
The courtroom was filled with emotion as members of the Metcalf family delivered victim impact statements.
Jeff Metcalf, the victim’s father, and Hunter Metcalf, Austin’s twin brother, spoke about the devastating loss and the lasting impact it has had on their family.
Prosecutors maintained throughout the trial that the evidence demonstrated an intentional act rather than self-defense, while defense attorneys argued that Karmelo Anthony reacted during a chaotic confrontation.
After deliberation, jurors rejected the self-defense argument and returned a guilty verdict.
Following the conviction, the same jury sentenced Karmelo Anthony to 35 years in prison, concluding one of the most closely watched criminal cases in Texas over the past year.
Outside the courthouse, supporters of both families gathered peacefully as community members reflected on the tragedy that changed the lives of two families and an entire school community.
Friends and classmates continue remembering Austin Metcalf as a dedicated athlete, respected teammate, and compᴀssionate student whose future was filled with promise.
Memorials honoring his life remain throughout Frisco, where residents continue offering prayers and support to his family.
Although the verdict and sentence have now been delivered, many in the community say the case serves as a reminder of how a brief confrontation can lead to irreversible consequences, leaving lasting pain for everyone involved.