Karmelo Anthony Appeals Murder Conviction in Austin Metcalf’s Death

A Texas jury sentenced Anthony to 35 years in prison for the fatal stabbing at a Frisco high school track meet. A judge later denied his request for a new trial.

The case over the death of 17-year-old Austin Metcalf has moved from a Collin County courtroom to a Texas appeals court. On June 9, 2026, a jury found Karmelo Anthony guilty of murder and sentenced him to 35 years in prison. Anthony, who was also 17 at the time of the stabbing, pleaded not guilty. His attorneys argued that he acted in self-defense.

What witnesses told jurors about the track meet

The confrontation took place on April 2, 2025, during a high school track meet in Frisco. According to testimony, the two students argued in the bleachers beneath a tent set up for Metcalf’s team, Memorial High School. Anthony attended Frisco Centennial High School. Student witnesses told jurors that Metcalf asked Anthony to leave the tent and the exchange turned physical before Anthony stabbed him. Metcalf died from his injuries.

At trial, the defense argued that Anthony used the knife because he feared for his safety during the confrontation. Prosecutors argued that the stabbing was unjustified. Jurors heard from students who witnessed the encounter, along with investigators and medical experts. They rejected the self-defense claim and found Anthony guilty.

Why Anthony’s lawyers asked for a new trial

After the verdict, Anthony’s appellate lawyers challenged several aspects of the trial. They argued that restrictions on courtroom access infringed on his right to a public trial. They also said an agreement between the trial attorneys about what evidence they would introduce affected Anthony’s ability to testify in his own defense. Anthony did not take the stand.

Retired District Judge Michael Chitty heard the motion and denied it on August 22, 2026, after reviewing the evidence, arguments, and case record. That decision left the jury’s verdict and 35-year sentence in place.

Where the case stands now

Anthony filed a notice of appeal the day after his conviction. After the judge denied the request for a new trial, his appellate attorney said the defense would continue its appeal in the Fifth Court of Appeals in Dallas. The jury has already ruled on the self-defense claim. The appeal gives Anthony’s lawyers a separate avenue to challenge how the trial was conducted.