A tragic incident unfolded on Wednesday morning at a track meet in Frisco, Texas, where a 17-year-old student was fatally stabbed during an altercation. The event, which took place at David Kuykendall Stadium, involved multiple schools participating in the District 11-5A track and field championships.
According to the Frisco Police Department, officers were dispatched to the stadium around 10 a.m. after reports of a fight between two students. The confrontation resulted in one student, identified as Austin Metcalf, suffering fatal stab wounds. Despite immediate lifesaving measures, including CPR performed by police and fire personnel, Metcalf was pronounced dead shortly after being transported to a local hospital.
Metcalf, a junior at Frisco Memorial High School, was remembered as a dedicated student-athlete who excelled in both football and track. He was known for his leadership skills and had a bright future ahead, boasting a 4.0 GPA and being named the MVP of his football team. His father, Jeff Metcalf, shared the heartbreaking news that Austin died in the arms of his twin brother, Hunter, who was present during the incident and attempted to stop the bleeding.
In a statement, Jeff Metcalf expressed his grief and anger over the loss of his son. “This tragedy has shaken me, family, and friends to the core,” he wrote. He criticized the suspect, Karmelo Anthony, 17, who has been charged with first-degree murder, stating, “He brought a knife to a track meet and he murdered my son by stabbing him in the heart.” Despite his pain, Jeff Metcalf mentioned that he has already forgiven Anthony, stating, “God takes care of things.”
The suspect, Karmelo Anthony, is currently in custody without bond, and it remains unclear whether he has legal representation. The Frisco Police Department has stated that the investigation is ongoing, but they have not released further details about the circumstances of the stabbing.
Following the incident, Frisco ISD officials described the situation as an “unprecedented” tragedy. In an email to the school community, they expressed their condolences and emphasized their commitment to supporting students and staff during this difficult time. Memorial High School planned to acknowledge Austin’s death in school on Thursday, providing counseling services to students affected by the loss.
Witnesses and community members have taken to social media to express their shock and sadness over the violent act. Friends of Metcalf shared their memories, with one teammate describing him as “the heart of the football team.” Gavin Stites, a close friend, recalled how Metcalf would energize the team during practices and games, saying, “He was the light that we all looked for.”
The University Interscholastic League (UIL), which oversees high school athletics in Texas, also expressed their sorrow regarding the incident. UIL staff is in communication with Frisco ISD to provide support and assistance during this trying time.
The Frisco community is now grappling with the aftermath of this tragedy, raising questions about safety and the factors that led to such a violent encounter at a school event. Parents and students alike are left to process their grief and seek answers in the wake of Austin Metcalf's untimely death.
As the investigation continues, authorities are urging anyone with information about the incident to come forward. The Frisco Police Department can be contacted at 972-292-6010, or tips can be submitted via text by sending FRISCOPD followed by the tip to 847411.
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the challenges faced by schools in ensuring the safety of students during events meant to celebrate their achievements. The community of Frisco is mourning the loss of a promising young life while grappling with the implications of this tragic event.
