Tragedy in Frisco: Teen Charged With First-Degree Murder
The quiet town of Frisco, Texas, was rocked last month by a fatal stabbing during a high school track championship at Kuykendall Stadium. 17-year-old Karmelo Anthony is accused of murdering Austin Metcalf, allegedly over a seat dispute in the bleachers. Anthony has now been formally charged with first-degree murder and will be tried as an adult in Collin County.
Texas law allows juveniles aged 16 or 17 to be tried as adults in serious cases. While the charge carries a maximum sentence of life in prison, Anthony cannot receive the death penalty or life without parole due to Supreme Court rulings that protect minors from such sentences. If convicted, he faces 40 years before parole eligibility.
Bond Controversy, Graduation, and Luxurious Lifestyle Spark Outrage
Initially held on $1 million bond, a judge later reduced the amount to $250,000, allowing Anthony to be released to house arrest at his parents’ home. Since then, details have emerged that have deeply disturbed the public and the victim’s family.
A GiveSendGo campaign raised over $525,000 for Anthony’s family — money that has reportedly been used to purchase a Cadillac and relocate to a $900,000 home. Many see this as a grotesque reward following a heinous crime.
Adding insult to injury, Anthony was permitted to graduate high school, walking the stage despite being charged with murder. The news stunned the community and enraged the family of the victim.
A Father’s Grief: “My Son Doesn’t Get a Diploma”
Jeff Metcalf, Austin’s father, expressed his heartbreak over a symbolic effort to grant his son a posthumous diploma.
“It’s a nice gesture,” Metcalf said, “but in the long run, my son doesn’t get a diploma. So, there’s part of me that says maybe Mr. Anthony shouldn’t get one either.”
His statement underscores the growing public sentiment that justice is slipping away — not just in court, but in culture.
Justice or Privilege?
This case is quickly becoming a flashpoint in the debate over juvenile justice, accountability, and societal values. While Karmelo Anthony awaits trial, critics argue that he’s already benefiting from legal leniency and public sympathy — privileges that his victim will never receive.
As the case moves forward, one question remains:
Will justice be served — or will this be remembered as yet another failure to put victims first?