Karmelo Anthony faces a murder trial for the stabbing death of Austin Metcalf, which may hinge on a self-defense claim.
FRISCO, Texas — On Tuesday, Karmelo Anthony was given a murder indictment in the stabbing death of Austin Metcalf at a Frisco ISD track meet on April 2, setting the stage for a high-profile and emotionally charged trial.
“Today’s indictment is an expected and routine step in the legal process,” said Karmelo’s attorney Mike Howard on Tuesday. “Karmelo and his family are confident in the justice system and the people of Collin County to be fair and impartial. Karmelo looks forward to his day in court.” Howard’s full indictment statement can be seen here.
One of the central legal questions will be whether Anthony acted in self-defense. The defense, led by attorney Mike Howard, has laid the groundwork for the argument.
“Texas has probably the strongest self-defense laws of any state in the country,” said veteran defense attorney Todd Shapiro, who is not involved in the case.
Shapiro of the Shapiro Law Firm explained that if the defense claims self-defense, the prosecution must address it and disprove it. In Texas, self-defense, encompassing both the Castle Doctrine and Stand Your Ground, allows individuals to use force, including deadly force, to protect themselves or others from imminent harm.
“First of all, are you justified in the defense?” Shapiro said. “Secondly, is the threat imminent? And is it necessary to combat potentially deadly force being used against you?”
The case has been assigned to the 296th District Court under Judge John Roach. Court assignments are done in order of rotation, not by choice.
“The next one up is the next one up,” Shapiro said. “No one in the district clerk’s office or the DA’s office or the defense attorney has any say on which court the case falls into.”
Notably, the judge who handled Anthony’s bond hearing received death threats and required additional security. So far, no judge has recused themselves from the case.
“I’m very pleased the case ended up in his court,” Shapiro added. “He’s compassionate when he needs to be. He’s tough when he needs to be. He runs a great courtroom.”
The case has drawn national attention and become racially charged, with outside groups spreading misinformation online.
“You gotta shrink that circle and say we’re not listening to any outside noise or the press,” Shapiro said. “It’s tough.”
Before the trial begins, there will be hearings and motions, and a plea deal is still possible. But regardless of the legal outcome, the emotional toll is already evident—and growing.