AN athlete accused of fatally stabbing a competing teen will receive his high school diploma.
Karmelo Anthony, 18, was arrested and charged with murder after investigators say he stabbed teen Austin Metcalf in the heart.
When Anthony, then 17 years old, was a student at Frisco Centennial High School, he was implicated in the death of a student from Frisco Memorial High School during the UIL District 11-5A championship track meet.
The stabbing occurred on April 2 at Kuykendall Stadium in Frisco, Texas, about 40 minutes outside of Dallas.
Since being arrested, Anthony was released on a $250,000 bond, which was reduced from $1 million.
Partnering with the advocacy group Next Generation Action Network, Anthony’s family has announced that he will be able to graduate, even though he did not complete the final month of his studies.
The family stated they have reached an arrangement with Frisco ISD to permit Anthony to receive his diploma, as he has fulfilled his required credits, according to a report from local ABC affiliate WFAA.
Despite being allowed to graduate, the high school senior will not “participate in any senior graduation activities.”
When asked about the situation, Frisco ISD told the outlet it could not discuss individual student records.
NGAN noted that the “agreement does not reflect a position by Frisco ISD on the ongoing legal case, but rather is an example of the district adhering to its academic policies regarding student credit completion and graduation requirements.”
“We are proud to share that Karmelo Anthony will graduate and receive his high school diploma, and that his academic achievements will not be disrupted,” Next Generation Action Network President Dominique Alexander told WFAA.
“NGAN has worked diligently alongside the Anthony family’s legal team to bring about this fair and student-focused resolution.
“This is a moment of dignity for Karmelo and a reminder of the power of advocacy done right.”
While Anthony will be allowed to graduate, Frisco ISD Superintendent Dr. Mike Waldrip reiterated in an email to Centennial High School staff that the student will not be allowed to walk.
“I want to be clear. No student who commits a serious criminal offense (Title V felony) is permitted to participate in the graduation ceremony.
“Additionally, anyone who trespasses on Frisco ISD property or at a District event will be subject to immediate removal and possible arrest by law enforcement.
“Frisco ISD does not condone violence or crime in our schools or at our events and will not reward or celebrate those who hurt others. We work to ensure every student is safe to learn and feels part of our culture of respect, honor, and integrity.”
Anthony has admitted to stabbing the teen but said he did it in self-defense after he and Metcalf got into an altercation over a seating dispute.
School’s statement
Frisco ISD Superintendent Dr. Mike Waldrip wrote in an email sent to Centennial High School staff, students and families:
“Frisco ISD has learned that misinformation is being shared regarding Centennial High School’s graduation via several media outlets and perpetuated through social media. It is disheartening that the incredible accomplishments and achievements of our Centennial seniors may be dampened by needless fear-mongering, attention-seeking, and media vitriol. Our students, staff, and community deserve better.
“I want to be clear. No student who commits a serious criminal offense (Title V felony) is permitted to participate in the graduation ceremony. Additionally, anyone who trespasses on Frisco ISD property or at a District event will be subject to immediate removal and possible arrest by law enforcement.
“Frisco ISD does not condone violence or crime in our schools or at our events and will not reward or celebrate those who hurt others. We work to ensure every student is safe to learn and feels part of our culture of respect, honor, and integrity.
“Let’s come together as a community to honor and support our students and staff. This moment is about their success, and they deserve our full attention and encouragement. Congratulations to the Centennial Class of 2025!”
Hunter Metcalf, the victim’s brother, told WFAA that the encounter happened in less than 30 seconds.
Hunter was left holding his dying twin brother after the altercation.
When police officers arrived to the scene, the arresting officer referred to Anthony as an “alleged suspect.”
The teenager then responded: “I’m not alleged, I did it,” according to an affidavit.
“He put his hands on me. I told him not to,” Anthony allegedly told the office.
The teen later asked authorities “if what happened could be considered self-defense,” the affidavit stated.
The Metcalf family issued a statement shortly after Austin’s death.
“My son and I are profoundly thankful for the overwhelming support, prayers, and love we have received,” Metcalf’s mother stated at the time.
“Tragedies inevitably raise questions that remain unanswered. We will entrust the detectives handling the investigation to determine the circumstances surrounding Austin’s passing, while our family, Hunter, and I prioritize commemorating and honoring Austin.
“We extend our gratitude to everyone who has supported us in numerous ways and helped sustain our family during this difficult time.”
