Karmelo Anthony Released on Bond in Fatal Track Meet Stabbing Case
Karmelo Anthony, the 17-year-old high school student charged with first-degree murder in the fatal stabbing of Austin Metcalf, has been released from the Collin County Jail after his bond was reduced from $1 million to $250,000.
The incident occurred during a Frisco ISD track meet on April 2, where witnesses say a verbal altercation between the teens escalated into violence. Anthony, who has claimed self-defense, now awaits trial under strict house arrest conditions.
What Happened at the Track Meet
According to the arrest affidavit, the incident started with a verbal altercation in the stadium bleachers, reportedly under the Memorial High School tent. Witnesses said Metcalf asked Anthony to move, prompting a heated exchange.
One witness recalled Anthony reaching into his bag and warning, “Touch me and see what happens.” Metcalf then allegedly grabbed Anthony to push him out of the tent. That’s when Anthony pulled out a knife and stabbed him once in the chest before fleeing.
Officers detained Anthony at the scene. During questioning in the police car, he asked whether Metcalf would survive and if the incident would be considered self-defense.
A Divided Public and a Plea for Calm
The case has sparked intense public reaction. Emotions were especially high at Monday’s hearing, attended by both families under heightened security.
Anthony’s defense attorney, Mike Howard, addressed the backlash:
“The vitriol, threats, and talk of race and war are not helping anyone. This is a tragedy for both families and the community.”
Collin County District Attorney Greg Willis added that the prosecution remains focused on facts, not public pressure.
Bond Conditions and Legal Process
As part of his release conditions, Anthony must:
- Wear an ankle monitor
- Remain under house arrest with approved adult supervision
- Avoid all social media and school contact
- Check in with the court every Friday
- Receive court approval before leaving home
The Next Generation Action Network, a Dallas-based social justice group, has supported Anthony and is helping the family process the bond. As of Monday, more than $416,000 had been raised for legal expenses via GiveSendGo, though the family stated they didn’t yet have access to those funds.
What’s Next in the Case
Prosecutors will continue their investigation as Anthony’s case proceeds through the court system. The teen’s defense team, now led by Mike Howard and backed by social justice advocates, maintains that Anthony acted in self-defense.
As the community mourns the death of Austin Metcalf and grapples with the complexities of the case, both families are asking the public to stop the threats, harassment, and online attacks.
More…
- https://abcnews.go.com/US/texas-track-meet-stabbing-bond-reduced-teen-murder-suspect/story?id=120798058
- https://www.cbsnews.com/texas/news/karmelo-anthony-suspect-in-fatal-frisco-track-meet-stabbing-released-on-bond
- https://www.syracuse.com/orangebasketball/2025/04/carmelo-anthony-pitches-cannabis-brand-signs-autographs-in-syracuse-photos.html
