A jury in Collin County, Texas, has reached a verdict in the murder trial of Karmelo Anthony, who was charged in connection with the stabbing death of 17-year-old Austin Metcalf during a high school track meet on April 2, 2025. The verdict is scheduled to be announced on Tuesday afternoon. Anthony, who was 17 at the time of the incident, admitted to stabbing Metcalf but claimed he acted in self-defense. The confrontation occurred under a team tent during a rainy track meet attended by various schools from North Texas.
Witnesses provided conflicting accounts of the events leading up to the stabbing, with some stating that Anthony was asked to leave the tent multiple times. Testimonies indicated that Metcalf approached Anthony and that a physical altercation ensued, resulting in Anthony stabbing Metcalf in the chest. Prosecutors argued that Anthony escalated the situation by using a knife, while the defense maintained that Anthony acted in self-defense after being confronted by a larger student.
The trial included emotional testimony from various witnesses, including students and police officers, and drew national attention due to the circumstances surrounding the case, including discussions about race and self-defense claims. Demonstrations outside the courthouse reflected the public interest in the trial, with supporters of both families present. The case has raised broader questions about justice and accountability in similar situations.