FRISCO, Texas — Karmelo Anthony, the 17-year-old charged with murder in connection to the fatal stabbing of a fellow student during a high school track meet, has been released from custody after a judge approved a significant bond reduction.
On Monday, a Collin County judge lowered Anthony’s bond from $1 million to $250,000. Shortly after, his family posted bond and he was released from the Collin County Jail under strict conditions.
Anthony is accused of fatally stabbing 17-year-old Austin Metcalf, a junior at Memorial High School, during a UIL District 11-5A track meet at Kuykendall Stadium on April 2. The incident has sent shockwaves through the Frisco community.
Conditions of Release
As part of his release, Anthony is now under house arrest and is required to wear an ankle monitor. He may only leave his residence with prior court approval and must be supervised at all times by a parent or designated adult. Additionally, he is strictly prohibited from having any direct or indirect contact with Metcalf’s family.
Anthony is permitted to attend court-approved meetings with his attorney and must check in with the court’s bailiff every Friday morning until the case is transferred to a different court. Should his family need to relocate for safety concerns, they are required to update their address with the Collin County Sheriff’s Office.
Violating any of the release conditions could result in Anthony’s return to jail. The judge also issued a warning to Anthony to avoid all social media platforms.
Legal Proceedings Ahead
Anthony’s arrest marked the beginning of a multi-stage legal process. Following his arraignment and bond reduction, his case now moves toward the possibility of a grand jury indictment.
During the grand jury phase, only the prosecution may present evidence. If the grand jury determines sufficient cause exists, Anthony will be formally indicted. If not, the charge could be dropped—though the state may pursue alternative charges.
The case will proceed with a series of preliminary hearings and pre-trial motions. Both the defense and prosecution will continue building their respective cases, with the potential for a plea agreement before trial. If no agreement is reached, a trial date will be set. Anthony will then choose between a jury trial or a bench trial decided solely by a judge.
In the event of a conviction, a sentencing hearing will follow. Anthony would have the right to appeal, but the appellate court would only review claims of legal errors or abuses of discretion during the trial.
The Incident
According to the arrest affidavit, the altercation began when Anthony, a student at Centennial High School, was sitting under the Memorial High School tent and was asked to leave. Witnesses say he warned Metcalf, “Touch me and see what happens,” before Metcalf pushed him. At that point, Anthony allegedly reached into a bag and stabbed Metcalf in the chest.
Anthony was quickly taken into custody. He reportedly admitted to the act, telling officers, “I did it,” and later asked if the incident could be considered self-defense.
Remembering Austin Metcalf
Austin Metcalf is being remembered by his family and community as a standout student-athlete and leader.
“Austin was a leader. He led the football team and was voted MVP by his teammates and coaches,” said his father, Jeff Metcalf. “Football was his pride and joy, and he was working on his speed through track.”
Austin, a twin, shared a close bond with his brother. The weekend before the stabbing, the family had gone hunting together—an activity they cherished.
“I’m so fortunate to have had that weekend with him, not knowing it would be our last,” said Jeff. “Both of my sons are amazing, and this loss has shattered us. My other son is devastated. None of us will ever be the same.”
As the legal process unfolds, the Frisco community continues to mourn the loss of a young life full of promise while seeking clarity and justice in a deeply painful tragedy.