The father of slain teen Austin Metcalf, Jeff Metcalf, addressed convicted murderer Karmelo Anthony during a victim impact statement in court on June 10, 2026. Anthony was convicted of murdering Austin at a track meet in April 2025 and was sentenced to 35 years in prison.
Jeff Metcalf criticized Anthony for framing the case in terms of race, stating, "This was never about race, please don’t politicize it. It’s about right and wrong. We’re all humans. We all bleed the same color." He expressed his grief, saying, "A piece of me died with my son, and I’m expected to keep living. You’re going to prison. I forgave you the day it happened. I don’t forgive what you did."
Jeff Metcalf emphasized the consequences of Anthony's actions, stating, "You’re free to make choices all you want, but you’re not free from those consequences. You will face those consequences starting today." He described his grief as "pure unfiltered rage" and criticized Anthony for not looking him in the eyes during the statement.
Austin's mother, Meghan Metcalf, also spoke, telling Anthony he should feel fortunate compared to the pain inflicted on their family. She said, "You should feel lucky because I’ve been sentenced to a life without my son." Austin's twin brother, Hunter Metcalf, recounted the impact of the murder on his life and urged Anthony to look him in the eyes while speaking, which Anthony did not do.
The trial for Anthony began on June 1 and concluded in nine days. Evidence presented during the trial, including video footage and witness testimony, indicated that Anthony provoked the situation, contradicting his self-defense claim. Anthony did not testify during the trial.