MCKINNEY, Texas
Closing arguments were scheduled Tuesday in the highly watched Texas murder trial involving 19-year-old Karmelo Anthony, who is accused of fatally stabbing fellow student and track athlete Austin Metcalf during a school track meet in 2025.
Anthony has pleaded not guilty and faces a possible life sentence if convicted. The case has drawn widespread attention following the deadly confrontation that occurred during a rainy track and field event involving multiple schools.
Defense Claims Self-Defense During Confrontation
Throughout the nearly weeklong trial, Anthony’s legal team argued that he acted in self-defense after tensions escalated under a team tent belonging to Frisco Memorial High School.
Witnesses testified that Metcalf and several others repeatedly asked Anthony to leave the tent area. According to testimony, the argument intensified, and after physical contact occurred, Anthony allegedly pulled out a knife and stabbed the 17-year-old in the chest.
Anthony chose not to testify during the trial.
Prosecutors Say Attack Was Unjustified
Prosecutors argued that the stabbing was not an act of self-defense and described it as an unjustified attack. Several students who witnessed the incident told jurors that Anthony appeared to be the aggressor during the confrontation.
According to testimony presented in court, Anthony warned Metcalf not to touch him before the encounter became physical.
The prosecution relied heavily on statements from teenage witnesses who were present during the incident and described the shocking events that unfolded at the stadium.
Jury Nears Deliberations
The courtroom in Collin County remained filled with family members and supporters as the trial moved toward its final phase. Both Anthony’s and Metcalf’s families have attended the proceedings.
Jurors are expected to begin deliberations after hearing closing statements. A conviction could result in a sentence of up to life in prison.
