A Collin County jury found 19-year-old Karmelo Anthony guilty in the fatal stabbing of 17-year-old Austin Metcalf at a high school sporting event on April 2, 2025, and later sentenced him to 35 years in prison. The verdict came after jurors heard graphic testimony and saw disturbing evidence presented by prosecutors, including an enlarged photograph of the stab wound.
According to courtroom reports, the prosecution argued that the attack was especially brutal, making a lesser charge such as manslaughter unlikely to be seriously considered. Manslaughter can carry a sentence of up to 20 years, but the jury ultimately chose a much harsher punishment.
A key witness was Collin County chief medical examiner Dr. Elizabeth Ventura, who described the wound in detail. She testified that the knife penetrated deep enough to pierce bone and the victim’s heart. Ventura said the injury was oval-shaped, about 2 inches long, and “gaping.” When asked whether the stabbing was survivable, she answered, “No.”
The evidence shown in court reportedly had a strong emotional impact on those present. Several jurors were said to have gasped during the presentation, and one woman covered her mouth. Metcalf’s family left the courtroom while the images were shown. Anthony remained seated with his head down, looking toward his lap.
The photo displayed by prosecutors showed the extent of the injury and the amount of blood from the stabbing. Testimony indicated that Anthony used an Ozark Trail folding knife in the attack and plunged it deeply into Metcalf’s chest.
The case drew attention because of the age of both the defendant and the victim, as well as the violent nature of the killing. The sentencing concluded only hours after the guilty verdict, bringing an end to a closely watched trial in Collin County.
The jury’s decision reflects the severity of the evidence presented in court and the consequences tied to the fatal assault. With the conviction and sentence now delivered, the case has reached a major legal milestone, though it remains likely to continue drawing public scrutiny due to its tragic circumstances and the young ages of those involved.
