Texas Judge Denies New Trial for Karmelo Anthony in Stabbing Case

A Texas judge has rejected a request for a new trial for Karmelo Anthony, convicted of murder in the 2025 stabbing death of a high school athlete. Anthony, aged 19, was sentenced to 35 years for killing Austin Metcalf, 17, during a track meet. The case drew national focus and led to harassment of the families involved.

Judge Michael Chitty issued the denial after a two-day hearing near Dallas. He based the decision on evidence review and arguments presented, without providing additional reasoning. Anthony’s lawyer, Russell Wilson, plans to appeal, stating their dedication to the client’s defense remains strong.

“Our commitment to our client has not changed,” Wilson asserted. “We will continue to advocate vigorously on his behalf through every lawful avenue available.”

The retrial request centered around an understanding to exclude damaging character evidence about both teenagers from the proceedings. Concerns arose that the prosecution might break their agreement as Anthony prepared to testify, leading to last-minute changes in his legal strategy. Ultimately, Anthony chose not to testify.

Prosecutor Bill Wirskye maintained the trial was fair. Collin County District Attorney Greg Willis expressed confidence in the court’s initial decision, emphasizing the jury’s guilty verdict as just.

“The jury’s guilty verdict stands, and we remain confident in the process,” Willis noted. “Every defendant has the right to appeal, and our thoughts and prayers remain with the Metcalf family in the painful wake of last week’s hearing.”

Anthony’s team also argued for a retrial due to stringent courtroom rules imposed by trial judge John Roach, claiming these limited public access. They sought Roach’s recusal following an interview where he agreed with the jury’s verdict.

“Whatever they say, they got it right,” Roach commented in the interview.

Roach defended his rules, saying they ensured a fair trial, while prosecutors argued he acted appropriately. During the original trial, jurors dismissed Anthony’s self-defense claim regarding an altercation in the bleachers. Witnesses indicated Anthony was asked to leave repeatedly and provoked Metcalf.

Evidence showed Anthony reached into a bag and warned, “Touch me and see what happens,” before fatally stabbing Metcalf after being pushed.