The Frisco community is in mourning following the tragic death of Austin Metcalf, a 17-year-old junior at Memorial High School, who was fatally stabbed during a track meet on April 2, 2025. The incident unfolding at David Kuykendall Stadium during the UIL District 11-5A championship has left residents grappling with shock and grief.
Karmelo Anthony, a 17-year-old student from Centennial High School, has been charged with first-degree murder in connection with the stabbing, which stemmed from a seating dispute.
The altercation occurred around 10:00 a.m. amid rainy conditions at the track meet. According to an arrest affidavit, Anthony was sitting under Memorial High School’s tent when Austin Metcalf approached and asked him to move.
Witnesses reported that the situation escalated rapidly after Anthony warned Metcalf, “Touch me and see what happens,” and reached into his bag. When Metcalf touched or pushed Anthony, the latter allegedly pulled out a black knife and stabbed Metcalf once in the chest before fleeing the scene.
Metcalf, clutching his chest and calling for help, collapsed into the arms of his identical twin brother, Hunter, who desperately tried to stop the bleeding. Emergency responders arrived swiftly, administering CPR and blood transfusions, but were unable to save him.
Jeff Metcalf, Austin’s father, told NBC Dallas-Fort Worth that his son was “stabbed in the heart,” a detail that has amplified the tragedy’s emotional weight. Police apprehended Anthony at the scene, where he made immediate, unprompted statements.
“I was protecting myself,”
He told an arresting officer, later adding that Metcalf had “put his hands on [him].” While being escorted to a police vehicle, Anthony reportedly declared, “I’m not alleged, I did it,” when referred to as the suspect.
Officers noted fresh blood on his left middle finger. During transport, Anthony inquired about Metcalf’s condition and asked if his actions could be considered self-defense.
Anthony now faces a first-degree murder charge and is being held at Collin County Jail on a $1 million bond. If convicted, he could face 5 to 99 years in prison. The Frisco Police Department says the investigation remains active.
Austin Metcalf was a standout student-athlete at Memorial High School, known for his leadership and talent. His father described him as an honor student and linebacker who was voted team MVP by his football teammates and coaches.
“Austin was a leader. He led the football team,”
Jeff Metcalf told Fox 4. His mother, Meghan, highlighted his bright future, noting interest from college football recruiters.
“He had such ambitions and a drive that’s hard to find in a kid,”
The loss is especially poignant for Austin’s twin brother, Hunter, who witnessed the stabbing.
“I tried to whip around as fast as I could,”
Hunter told WFAA, his voice breaking.
“I looked at my brother and tried to help him.”
The image of Austin dying in Hunter’s arms has reverberated through the community.
The incident has sparked concerns about security at school events. Parents are questioning what measures were in place at the track meet and whether bags are routinely checked. The Frisco school district has yet to address these concerns, with a spokesperson declining to comment.
In response, the community has rallied around the Metcalf family. A prayer vigil was held Wednesday evening at Hope Fellowship church, and the Frisco Police Department issued a statement expressing their “deepest condolences” to those affected by this “devastating loss.”
Jeff Metcalf, despite his grief, has extended forgiveness to Anthony.
“I’m not here to judge, but what kind of upbringing did this individual have? He brought a knife to a track meet and took my son’s life, I’ve already forgiven him. God will handle the situation.”
Reflecting on Austin’s potential, he added,
“He was going to impact this world with positivity. I’m so proud of him.”
As legal proceedings unfold, Frisco mourns a young life cut short and searches for answers. The tragedy has underscored the fragility of youth and the need for improved safety measures. The police urge anyone with information to contact their non-emergency line or text “FRISCOPD” to 847411 for anonymous tips.
Austin Metcalf’s legacy endures through his family’s love and his peers’ admiration. Though brief, it is a testament to a life that left an indelible mark on Frisco.
