First Statement from Attorneys of Teen Accused in Track Meet Stabbing

The relatives of a 17-year-old charged with murder in the stabbing of another student at a high school track event express deep sorrow for the tragic loss, according to the first communication released by the teen's lawyers.

This unfortunate incident took place on April 2nd at the Frisco Independent School District stadium during a district-wide track and field competition in Frisco, Texas.

The victim, Austin Metcalf, also 17, and a junior at Frisco Memorial High, succumbed to injuries after an alleged altercation in the bleachers led to his being stabbed.

Karmelo Anthony, a student from Frisco Centennial High School, faces first-degree murder charges as indicated by local law enforcement.

Family and Legal Representation Seek Understanding

Anthony’s family has sought the services of noted Dallas-Fort Worth area defense attorneys Billy Clark from the Clark Law Firm and Kim Cole of K Cole Law, as referenced in a joint statement from the firms.

“The Anthony family is truly heartbroken over the loss of life and extends heartfelt sympathies to Austin Metcalf’s family,” expressed the attorneys on behalf of the family. They urged the public to withhold judgment until a comprehensive examination of facts can occur, emphasizing Anthony’s right to an unprejudiced legal process.

Legal Proceedings and Community Reactions

Karmelo Anthony remains in custody at the Collin County Detention Center, with a bail amount set at $1 million. His defense team plans to discuss the possibility of reducing the bond and reassessing the severity of the charges with the Collin County District Attorney’s Office.

The attorneys highlighted the long and challenging path ahead and called for public patience and support as the family and community seek clarity through the legal proceedings.

In the aftermath, Anthony’s family initiated a fundraising campaign via GiveSendGo, amassing over $236,000 by Tuesday midday. The campaign specifics on fund utilization remain unspecified.

Self-Defense Claims and Eyewitness Accounts

Upon arrest, Anthony reportedly claimed he acted in self-defense, stating this to officers without prompting. He acknowledged his involvement, saying, "I was protecting myself," immediately upon identifying himself to the police at the scene.

Eyewitnesses recounted that the incident began when Metcalf asked Anthony to vacate a spot beneath their team's tent. A confrontation ensued with Anthony reportedly warning, "Touch me and see what happens."

According to witness statements, Metcalf attempted to move Anthony, prompting Anthony to allegedly wield a knife and inflict a fatal wound before fleeing, as outlined in the police report.

Meghan Metcalf, Austin's grieving mother, struggled to comprehend the loss, lamenting, “It's incomprehensible how my son is gone just because another student was upset.”

Official Statements and Misinformation Concerns

Frisco Police Chief David Shilson condemned the act as a needless tragedy and extended condolences to all affected families, encouraging trust in official channels against social media misinformation.

Police efforts include tracking down the origin of a spoof account spreading false details under the chief’s name, with intentions to file felony charges against the responsible parties.