Bond Reduced for Teen Charged in Fatal Track Meet Stabbing

MCKINNEY, Texas — Karmelo Anthony, a 17-year-old high school student charged with murder, was released from the Collin County Detention Facility on Monday afternoon after a judge reduced his bond from $1 million to $250,000.

Anthony’s release follows a bond hearing at the McKinney courthouse where District Judge Angela Tucker considered arguments from both the defense and the prosecution. Anthony is accused of fatally stabbing 17-year-old Austin Metcalf during an altercation at a track meet on April 2 at Frisco’s Kuykendall Stadium.

During the hearing, Anthony’s attorney Mike Howard argued that the high bond was not representative of the intent of bonds in Texas, which is to ensure court appearances rather than to act as punishment. Howard noted his client has no prior criminal history and strong ties to the community.

Judge Tucker agreed to lower the bond, setting conditions that require Anthony to wear an ankle monitor and remain under house arrest. He is prohibited from contacting Metcalf’s family or using social media.

After the hearing, Anthony’s father testified on his son’s behalf, explaining that Karmelo has a promising future as the captain of both the football and track teams while maintaining good academic standing. He expressed concern for his family’s safety and their ability to support Karmelo’s defense, as he is currently the sole provider for their household.

“Every Texan has a right to protect themselves when fearing for their life,” Howard said, emphasizing the importance of a fair investigation to uncover the truth. “There are two sides to every story.”

Prosecutor Greg Willis described the incident as a “terrible tragedy” that impacted not just the families involved but the entire community. “It’s the most unnatural thing for a parent to lose a child,” he stated.

According to witnesses, the confrontation began when Metcalf asked Anthony to leave an area designated for his school during a heavy downpour. They reported that Anthony brandished a knife after the verbal exchange escalated, leading to the deadly stabbing.

After the incident, Anthony reportedly expressed concern for Metcalf’s well-being to the officers on scene, asking if the victim would survive. Witnesses stated that Metcalf, a junior at Frisco Memorial High School and a standout athlete, died shortly after the stabbing.

In response to the tragedy, a fundraiser for Metcalf’s family was held at a local pizzeria, drawing significant community support as people came together to honor his memory.

As the investigation continues, the Collin County District Attorney’s office will present the case to a grand jury to determine if further charges against Anthony are warranted.