Karmelo Anthony indicted by grand jury
Karmelo Anthony, the 18-year-old accused in the stabbing death of 17-year-old Austin Metcalf during a Frisco ISD track meet, was formally indicted today by a Collin County grand jury on charges of first-degree murder. Anthony, who was 17 at the time of the incident, faces between five and 99 years, or potentially life in prison, if convicted.
The indictment comes after weeks of deliberation and evidence presentation by prosecutors. Collin County District Attorney Greg Willis stated his office had carefully gathered and presented substantial evidence, acknowledging the emotional impact the case has had on the community. Willis emphasized the seriousness with which his office is treating the case and the gravity of the charges against Anthony.
Anthony was initially arrested in early April following the fatal incident but later released on house arrest after posting a reduced bond of $250,000. His defense attorney, Mike Howard, indicated that the defense will argue self-defense, maintaining confidence that reasonable doubt about Anthony’s guilt can be established during the trial.
Austin Metcalf’s family expressed relief at today’s development, with his father, Jeff Metcalf, noting the family’s desire for justice as the trial approaches.
Earlier this month, Frisco ISD released surveillance video showing the stabbing incident. While the footage clearly depicts the confrontation occurring under a bleachers tent, the video quality obscures detailed actions due to its distance from the scene.
The indictment represents a significant procedural advancement, moving the case forward to the criminal trial phase. No arraignment or trial dates have been set as of yet, but today’s decision indicates prosecutors are fully committed to pursuing the matter through the courts.
