The father of a teen killed at a Texas school event speaks out as a murder charge moves forward, adding new emotional weight to a closely watched case.
Karmelo Anthony, the teen accused of fatally stabbing Austin Metcalf at a Frisco ISD track meet two months ago, has been indicted for first-degree murder. A Collin County grand jury officially charged him on Tuesday, June 24, 2025, after reviewing the case, according to CBS News.
Karmelo, now 18, was 17 at the time of the incident, which occurred on April 2 at Kuykendall Stadium. Authorities allege that an altercation between the two teens escalated into violence, resulting in Austin’s death.
Karmelo was arrested that day and later released on a reduced bond under house arrest. Texas law treats 17-year-olds as adults in the criminal justice system, and the charge carries a potential sentence of five years to life in prison.
Collin County District Attorney Greg Willis said his office spent several weeks gathering and presenting evidence to the grand jury.
“When something like this happens at a school event, it shakes people to the core,” Greg said. “But the justice system works best when it moves with steadiness and with principle. That’s what we’re committed to. And that’s exactly what this case deserves.”
Karmelo’s attorney, Mike Howard, responded to the grand jury’s decision with a video statement expressing confidence in the legal system. “Karmelo and his family are confident in the justice system and the people of Collin County to be fair and impartial,” Mike said. “Of course, Karmelo looks forward to his day in court.”
Mike also said that a trial is necessary for all the facts to come out fairly. He believes there’s still uncertainty about what happened and suggests Karmelo might have acted to protect himself.
Austin’s father, Jeff Metcalf, also issued a statement, acknowledging the legal progress while reflecting on his family’s continued grief.
“I am pleased that we are moving forward. With the first-degree murder indictment, it now goes into the court system. I fully believe that justice will be served for Austin Metcalf. I look forward to the forthcoming trial. But it will never bring my son back,” Jeff remarked.