Frisco High School Student Arrested in Fatal Stabbing at Track Meet
Family Offers Condolences and Calls for Patience
The family of a Frisco high school student arrested in the fatal stabbing at a track meet offered condolences Monday to the other student’s loved ones and called for the public’s patience as they “seek the truth” through the courts.
The statement, issued on behalf of Karmelo Anthony’s family by their legal team, comes after police say the 17-year-old Frisco Centennial High School student stabbed Austin Metcalf, a 17-year-old junior from Frisco Memorial High School, at David Kuykendall Stadium on Wednesday.
Statement from the Family
Anthony and his family, the statement says, are “sincerely saddened that a life was lost.” It goes on to caution the public from “rushing to judgment before all the facts and evidence are presented.”
“This will certainly be a long road ahead,” the statement reads, “and during this challenging time, we ask for prayers for both families and we ask for your patience and respect for the legal process as we seek the truth.”
Case Details
Anthony remained in Collin County jail Monday in lieu of a $1 million bond, according to jail records. His family has retained attorneys Billy Clark and Kim T. Cole, the statement says.
Anthony told police who responded to the stadium that he was acting in self-defense, according to a police report obtained by The Dallas Morning News.
Social Media Reaction
The case has become a flashpoint on social media, drawing intense reactions, speculation and disinformation online — something Frisco police say they are working with the FBI to investigate.
Academics who study social media told The News the disinformation appeared aimed at sowing racial animus online. Metcalf is white. Anthony is Black.
Ripple Effects
The case has had other ripple effects. The Wednesday track meet was suspended and resumed Monday, held this time at Little Elm’s Lobo Stadium with additional security, including metal detectors and police officers.
Anthony’s attorneys intend to seek a reduction to the $1 million bond, which they called “excessive” in the statement. He faces a murder charge, a first-degree felony punishable with between five years and life in prison.
Next Steps
“At this time, we will not be making further public statements to protect the integrity of the proceedings,” the statement reads. “We trust that the judicial system will carefully examine all aspects of this case.”
The statement directs media inquires to K.C. Fox, the CEO and founder of The Vault, a Dallas-based media and crisis communication firm.
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Crime in The News
Related: What we know about the fatal Frisco track meet stabbing
Conclusion
The fatal stabbing at a Frisco high school track meet has sent shockwaves through the community, with many calling for justice and others seeking to understand the circumstances surrounding the incident. As the case unfolds, it is essential to remember the importance of patience and respect for the legal process.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What happened at the track meet?
A: A 17-year-old Frisco Centennial High School student, Karmelo Anthony, allegedly stabbed a 17-year-old junior from Frisco Memorial High School, Austin Metcalf, at David Kuykendall Stadium on Wednesday.
Q: What is the current status of Karmelo Anthony?
A: Anthony is currently being held in Collin County jail in lieu of a $1 million bond, facing a murder charge, a first-degree felony punishable with between five years and life in prison.
Q: What is the family’s statement?
A: The family of Karmelo Anthony has issued a statement offering condolences to the family of Austin Metcalf and calling for patience and respect for the legal process as they seek the truth.
Q: Is there an investigation into social media activity surrounding the case?
A: Yes, Frisco police are working with the FBI to investigate social media activity related to the case, including disinformation and speculation.
