Frisco, Texas – In a stunning turn of events, the Collin County Grand Jury has indicted 17-year-old Karmelo Anthony for the m::urder of Austin Metcalf—and this time, prosecutors say the d3ath penalty is on the table.

On April 2, 2025, tragedy struck Memorial High School when Austin Metcalf, a beloved student and athlete, was fatally st@bbed during a track meet at Kuykendall Stadium. The shocking incident sent waves through the community, and after months of speculation, the legal system has delivered its verdict: Karmelo Anthony will stand trial for first-degree m::urder, with the possibility of capital punishment.

“We Want Justice—No Exceptions”

In the wake of the indictment, emotions ran high outside the courthouse. Austin’s father, Jeff Metcalf, addressed reporters:

“My son deserves justice. If you’re old enough to take a life in cold blood, you’re old enough to face the consequences. No exceptions.”

His wife, Karen, added, tears streaming down her face:

“We put our faith in the system. We just want to see accountability. Austin was our world.”

A Community Responds

The Metcalf family’s pain resonated with thousands. Within days, a GoFundMe campaign launched to support funeral expenses and “justice for Austin.” Donations poured in, with the total reaching $515,000 in less than a week. The family, seeking to start over, reportedly purchased new cars and moved into a rental house in a safer neighborhood.

But not everyone was sympathetic. On social media, heated debates erupted:

“Is it right for the family to spend donations on luxury?” one commenter asked.
“They lost their son. Let them grieve how they need,” another replied.

Defense Attorney Fires Back

Meanwhile, Karmelo Anthony’s lawyer, Mike Howard, issued a statement outside Collin County Jail:

“Karmelo is a 17-year-old kid. He acted in self-defense. The truth will come out in court, and we will fight these charges with everything we have.”

Reporters pressed him on the possibility of the d3ath penalty.

“Every Texan deserves the right to defend themselves. But the law is clear: if the prosecution seeks the d3ath penalty, we are prepared to challenge it every step of the way.”

Legal Experts Weigh In

The decision to pursue capital punishment against a minor has reignited debate across Texas. Legal analyst Rachel Nguyen commented:

“It’s rare, but not unprecedented. Texas law allows the d3ath penalty for 17-year-olds in certain circumstances. The Supreme Court may weigh in, but for now, the stakes couldn’t be higher.”

What Happens Next?

As the trial date approaches, the city of Frisco remains on edge. Supporters of the Metcalf family have vowed to attend every hearing, while Anthony’s friends rally for his defense.

The question remains: Will the courts deliver the justice Austin’s family demands, or will the complexities of youth and self-defense sway the jury?