The mother of Karmelo Anthony, the teenager charged in the fatal stabbing of Austin Metcalf at a Texas high school track meet, spoke out for the first time on April 17, 2025, addressing the threats and harassment her family has faced since the incident. The press conference, organized by the Next Generation Action Network in Dallas, was marked by heightened emotions as Anthony's family sought to clarify misinformation surrounding the case.
On April 2, during a track and field championship at a Frisco Independent School District stadium, a confrontation escalated between Anthony, a student at Frisco Centennial High School, and Metcalf, a 17-year-old junior at Frisco Memorial High School. Witnesses reported that the altercation began when Metcalf told Anthony he was sitting under the wrong school tent. According to police reports, Anthony allegedly threatened Metcalf, saying, "Touch me and see what happens." Following this exchange, Metcalf reportedly grabbed Anthony, prompting Anthony to pull out a knife and fatally stab Metcalf in the chest.
In the wake of the tragedy, Karmelo Anthony was charged with murder and initially held on a $1 million bond. However, after a hearing on April 14, a Collin County judge reduced his bond to $250,000, allowing him to be released under house arrest. As part of his release conditions, Anthony must wear an ankle monitor, be supervised by a parent or designated adult at all times, and has been prohibited from contacting Metcalf's family.
During the press conference, Anthony's mother, Kala Hayes, expressed the emotional toll the incident has taken on her family. "In the wake of this tragic incident, our family has been under attack. Whatever you think happened... my three younger children, my husband and I didn't do anything to deserve to be threatened, harassed and lied about," she said. Hayes revealed that her husband had to take a leave of absence from work due to the stress and fear for their family's safety, stating, "His mental health is deteriorating. Day by day, we have endured death threats."
Minister Dominique Alexander, president of the Next Generation Action Network, criticized what he termed as misinformation propagated by conservative operatives regarding the case. He specifically addressed a fundraiser through GiveSendGo that has reportedly raised over $458,000 for the Anthony family. "Let's be clear -- the family has not received one dime," Alexander stated, refuting claims that the family was living lavishly off the donations. He emphasized the family's need for security and support amidst the ongoing threats.
As the press conference unfolded, tensions heightened when Jeff Metcalf, Austin's father, unexpectedly arrived at the venue. His presence prompted police intervention, and he was escorted out after refusing to leave voluntarily. Alexander condemned Metcalf's attendance as "disrespectful" and a violation of the dignity of his son. The confrontation highlighted the deep divisions and emotional turmoil surrounding the case, which has garnered significant media attention and public scrutiny.
The ongoing investigation into the stabbing incident continues, with both families grappling with their respective losses and fears. Karmelo Anthony's defense team has indicated that he will plead self-defense, claiming he acted to protect himself during the altercation. As the legal proceedings unfold, the community remains divided, with passionate opinions on both sides.
In her remarks, Hayes extended her condolences to the Metcalf family, stating, "To the family who experienced the loss, my heart truly goes out to you. We believe in the legal process and that is where the truth will come out." She urged for patience and support as both families navigate this difficult period.
The Frisco Independent School District has also taken steps in response to the incident, notifying the Anthony family of their intent to expel Karmelo from school just a month before his high school graduation. The district stated that if a student is charged with a serious crime, they review the case for potential disciplinary action, including expulsion. However, Alexander has vowed to challenge this decision, asserting that Karmelo is a dedicated student with a 3.7 GPA who deserves a fair chance to complete his education.
As the case progresses, the Anthony family continues to seek justice and protection from the threats they face, while the Metcalf family mourns their loss. The community watches closely as the legal proceedings unfold, hoping for a resolution that honors the memories of both young men.
