Karmelo Anthony’s $630,000 GiveSendGo fundraiser shut down after murder conviction

Nineteen‑year‑old Karmelo Anthony was convicted of first‑degree murder for the fatal stabbing of 17‑year‑old Austin Metcalf during a high‑school track meet in Frisco, Texas, on April 2, 2025. A Texas jury sentenced Anthony to 35 years in prison, with parole eligibility after 17½ years.

The crowdfunding platform GiveSendGo removed Anthony’s £496,000 (US$630,000) fundraiser shortly after the conviction. Platform officials said the campaign’s purpose – to cover pre‑trial legal costs – had been fulfilled and the funds raised had already been distributed to the family. The remaining approximately £3,150 (US$4,000) contributed after the verdict will be handled according to the platform’s standard procedures. A statement from GiveSendGo read, "The fundraiser was supported to support pre‑trial needs, and those funds were disbursed over the last year. With that stated purpose complete, the fundraiser has been closed."

Separately, supporters of Anthony launched an online petition calling for the arrest of Austin Metcalf’s brother, Hunter, alleging he contributed to the incident. The petition has attracted fewer than 50 signatures and has not resulted in any official action.