Texas judge denies retrial for Karmelo Anthony in high school track stabbing case

A Dallas-area judge denied a motion for a new trial on Saturday for Karmelo Anthony, 19, who was convicted in June of murdering 17-year-old Austin Metcalf at a high-school track meet in April 2025. The judge issued a brief order after a two-day hearing, citing a review of the evidence and arguments, but offered no further explanation.

Anthony’s attorney, Russell Wilson, said the defense will appeal, stating, ">Our commitment to our client has not changed. We will continue to advocate vigorously on his behalf through every lawful avenue available."

The request for a retrial centered on an undisclosed agreement between prosecutors and the defense to withhold character evidence that could inflame an already tense case. Both sides said the evidence was excluded to avoid further controversy.

Prosecutor Bill Wirskye described the original trial as fair, and Collin County District Attorney Greg Willis said, ">We respect, and expected, the court’s decision denying the motion for a new trial. The jury’s guilty verdict stands, and we remain confident in the process. Every defendant has the right to appeal, and our thoughts and prayers remain with the Metcalf family."

Anthony’s lawyers also argued that the trial judge’s courtroom rules limited public access and sought the judge’s recusal after he gave a post-trial interview affirming the jury’s decision. The judge defended his procedures as necessary for a fair trial.

During the track meet, witnesses said Anthony was told to leave the area occupied by Metcalf’s team. According to a police report, Anthony warned, “Touch me and see what happens,” before a confrontation in which Metcalf allegedly pushed him, leading Anthony to draw a knife and stab Metcalf in the chest. Jurors rejected Anthony’s claim that he was acting in self-defense.