Tragedy at Frisco Track Meet: 17-Year-Old Karmelo Anthony Accused in Fatal Stabbing of Fellow Student
A devastating act of violence unfolded Wednesday morning during a high school track meet in Frisco, Texas, where a 17-year-old student, Karmelo Anthony, was arrested for allegedly fatally stabbing another student, Austin Metcalf, in a shocking incident that has left two local high schools reeling and a community in mourning.
According to an arrest affidavit released by the Frisco Police Department, the fatal altercation occurred beneath a tent designated for Memorial High School, despite Anthony being a student enrolled at Centennial High School. Witnesses stated that tensions escalated after Metcalf asked Anthony to move from under the tent reserved for Metcalf’s team. What began as a seemingly minor confrontation took a tragic and deadly turn.
The Fatal Encounter
The affidavit details a chilling timeline: following the initial verbal exchange, Anthony was seen reaching into his bag. He allegedly issued a warning to Metcalf, saying, “Touch me and see what happens.” Metcalf, reportedly undeterred, touched Anthony, prompting Anthony to respond, “Hit me and see what happens.” According to a witness, Metcalf then grabbed Anthony and again told him to move.
It was at this moment, the affidavit states, that Anthony pulled out what witnesses described as a black knife and stabbed Metcalf in the chest. The young athlete collapsed shortly after, clutching his chest and crying out for help. First responders rushed to the scene, but despite immediate efforts, Metcalf succumbed to his injuries. The tragic loss of a young life has sent shockwaves through the Frisco Independent School District.
Confession and Arrest
When approached by police, Anthony allegedly made multiple self-incriminating statements even before being formally questioned. Officers reported that he said, “I was protecting myself,” and during his escort from the track, he insisted that Metcalf had put his hands on him.
The situation took a further turn when an officer referred to him as the “alleged” suspect, to which Anthony reportedly responded, “I’m not alleged, I did it.” While seated in the back of the patrol vehicle, Anthony reportedly asked officers about the condition of Metcalf, suggesting he may not have been aware of the full extent of the injury at that time.
The knife believed to have been used in the stabbing was later found discarded in the bleachers, consistent with witness reports that Anthony had thrown it there after the attack.
A Community in Shock
The Frisco school community is grappling with this senseless act of violence that unfolded at what should have been a routine and spirited athletic event. Both Centennial High School and Memorial High School have made grief counseling available for students and staff. District officials released a statement expressing deep sorrow and pledging full cooperation with the ongoing investigation.
“This is a heartbreaking situation for everyone involved,” the district wrote. “We extend our deepest condolences to the family of the victim and are working closely with authorities to support our students and school community.”
The incident has reignited broader concerns about safety and conflict resolution among youth, particularly in school environments. Many are questioning how a weapon was brought onto school grounds, and whether earlier intervention could have prevented this escalation.
Legal Proceedings Ahead
Karmelo Anthony is currently in custody and is expected to face charges of murder. The investigation remains active, and prosecutors will be reviewing all evidence, including witness statements and video surveillance from the event. It remains to be seen how Anthony’s self-defense claim will factor into legal proceedings.
Remembering Austin Metcalf
Friends and family describe Austin Metcalf as a kind-hearted and driven student-athlete with a bright future ahead. He was known for his leadership, sportsmanship, and positive attitude. Tributes have been pouring in across social media, and a vigil is expected to be held in his honor in the coming days.
This incident, both tragic and deeply unsettling, has left two families forever changed, and a community asking hard questions about youth violence, school safety, and the fragility of life.
If you or someone you know is struggling to cope with this tragedy, grief counseling and support resources are available through the Frisco ISD crisis team and local mental health services.