The father of Austin Metcalf could barely contain his emotions after the teenager convicted of killing his son was sentenced to 35 years in prison.
On Tuesday, a jury found Karmelo Anthony guilty of murder in the fatal stabbing of 17-year-old Austin Metcalf, rejecting arguments that the killing was an act of self-defense.
The case has drawn national attention since the deadly confrontation at a Texas high school track meet in April 2025.
According to prosecutors, the incident began as a dispute over seating under a team tent. Court documents state that Anthony had been sitting beneath the tent when Metcalf approached him and asked him to move.
Witnesses told investigators that tensions quickly escalated.
At one point, Anthony allegedly warned Metcalf: “Touch me and see what happens.”
Prosecutors argued that when Metcalf attempted to physically remove Anthony from the area, Anthony pulled a knife from his backpack and stabbed him once in the chest.
The wound proved fatal.
Father claims family was ‘robbed’
Following the guilty verdict and sentencing, Austin’s father, Jeff Metcalf, delivered an emotional statement directly to Anthony in court.
According to reports, he accused the convicted teen of turning the tragedy into something it never should have become.
“We were robbed. The public response sickens me, especially when a gag order doesn’t allow me to defend my son.”
Metcalf went on to reject claims that the case was rooted in racial tensions or politics.
“This was never about race or politics, but what you did was choose to make it about both. We all bleed the same color.”
The grieving father also defended his son’s character.
“They weren’t bullies and they weren’t racists.”
As emotions spilled over in the courtroom, Metcalf told Anthony that while he could forgive him as a person, he could never forgive the act itself.
“I forgive you, but I do not forgive what you did. You can’t even look me in the eye, but you can stab my son in the f****** heart.”
Twin brother’s heartbreaking statement
Austin’s twin brother, Hunter Metcalf, also addressed Anthony during the hearing.
In a victim impact statement, he described the devastating void left behind by his brother’s death.
“I just want some respect if you could look me in the eye.”
According to local reports, Anthony eventually looked up at him.
Hunter then spoke about the pain his family continues to live with every day.
“I want you to realize how much pain you caused me and my family. You let the devil take over you in the moment.”
The teenager said mornings remain especially difficult.
“I wake up every morning and his door is still shut.”
Anthony was sentenced to 35 years in prison and must serve at least half of that sentence before becoming eligible for parole.
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