Karmelo Anthony’s father, Andrew Anthony, and mother, Kayla Hayes, have been thrust into the spotlight since their 17-year-old son was charged with the fatal stabbing of Austin Metcalf at a Frisco ISD track meet on April 2, 2025. The incident, which unfolded during a rain delay at Kuykendall Stadium, began when Karmelo, a student at Centennial High School, sat under the tent of Memorial High School, where Austin was a junior.
Witnesses say Austin told Karmelo to leave, leading to an argument. Karmelo allegedly warned, “Touch me and see what happens,” and when Austin pushed him, Karmelo pulled a black knife from his bag and stabbed Austin in the chest. Austin died in the arms of his twin brother, Hunter, while Karmelo was arrested at the scene. In custody, Karmelo reportedly admitted to the stabbing, asking officers if it could be considered self-defense and if Austin would be okay.
Karmelo Anthony’s Parents: Protection or Denial?
The Anthony family’s life has been upended since the incident. On April 14, 2025, Judge Angela Tucker reduced Karmelo’s bond from $1 million to $250,000 after his father, Andrew, testified about their financial struggles, claiming he was the sole breadwinner. The family’s legal team, led by defense attorney Mike Howard, argued the original bond was excessive for a first-time offender. However, the reduction sparked controversy when it was revealed the Anthonys were living in a $900,000 rented home in the gated Richwoods community in Frisco, with a monthly rent of $3,500.
Neighbors reported seeing a new car in their driveway with a temporary tag expiring June 4, contradicting claims of financial hardship. The family also raised over $439,000 through the crowdfunding platform GiveSendGo, which Andrew said was earmarked for legal fees and security, not the bond.
The Anthonys have faced intense public scrutiny and threats, prompting plans to relocate for safety. On April 17, 2025, they attempted to hold a press conference at the Next Generation Action Network (NGAN) headquarters in Dallas to address what they called “a wave of falsehoods” about Karmelo and the case. The event was delayed when Austin’s father, Jeff Metcalf, unexpectedly showed up, leading to a tense standoff.
NGAN, led by president Dominique Alexander, called Dallas police to remove Jeff, citing a court order barring contact between the families. The Anthonys eventually spoke, emphasizing their son’s character and the emotional toll of the case, though Karmelo did not attend.
The case has become a lightning rod for racial and political tensions. Right-wing commentators like Benny Johnson and Matt Walsh have framed it as an example of Black-on-white violence, while others have spread misinformation, including fake autopsy reports and claims Austin was a white supremacist. The hashtag #WhiteLivesMatter trended on social media, and white nationalist groups circulated stickers with the teens’ faces.
Meanwhile, Karmelo’s supporters argue he acted in self-defense, though details of the altercation remain disputed. The Anthonys’ GiveSendGo fundraiser drew donations from those believing in his innocence, while Austin’s family raised over $518,000 through GoFundMe for funeral expenses and advocacy.
Karmelo’s release conditions are strict. He must wear an ankle monitor, remain under 24/7 adult supervision, and stay off social media. He can only leave home for court-approved meetings with his attorney and must check in with the bailiff every Friday. Violations could send him back to jail. The case is now headed for a grand jury, where prosecutors will decide whether to pursue a first-degree murder indictment. Collin County District Attorney Greg Willis has vowed to follow the facts, calling the tragedy a loss for both families.
