Karmelo Anthony sentenced to 35 years for high‑school murder in Texas

A Collin County jury sentenced 19‑year‑old Karmelo Anthony to 35 years in prison after convicting him of murdering 17‑year‑old Austin Metcalf during a Frisco ISD track meet on April 2, 2025. The fatal stabbing occurred at Kuykendall Stadium when a dispute over seating escalated, and Anthony's claim of self‑defense was rejected after roughly two‑and‑a‑half hours of deliberation.

The case drew national attention, sparking debate over race, school safety and self‑defense laws. Anthony, who is Black, was tried as an adult; Metcalf was white. Supporters of Anthony alleged racial bias, with one saying, “If he was white, we wouldn’t even be here today.” Metcalf’s father expressed his grief, stating, “Forgiveness is not for him… My life is destroyed.”

The sentencing follows a high‑profile trial that highlighted broader societal tensions, and Anthony’s legal team is expected to consider an appeal.