Karmelo Anthony (Photo via Google)

The story of Karmelo Anthony, a Texas teenager now thrust into the national spotlight, is one that has left an entire community reeling. Just a few months ago, Anthony was simply another student, his life revolving around school and sports like so many others his age. That all changed in April, when a school track meet turned into a crime scene and his name became synonymous with tragedy. Anthony now stands accused of fatally st@bbing 17-year-old Austin Metcalf, a case that has since sparked outrage, fear, and debate far beyond the borders of Collin County.

In the immediate aftermath of the incident, Anthony was taken into custody, his fate uncertain as investigators pieced together the chaotic events of that day. After his release from jail, things didn’t get any easier. For his own safety, Anthony was moved to an undisclosed location after his family began receiving threats and enduring relentless harassment from people who believed justice hadn’t been served. The pressure cooker of public opinion was already boiling over, and the Anthony family found themselves isolated, their lives upended by the constant scrutiny and fear for their safety.

This week, the case took a significant turn. Collin County District Attorney Greg Willis announced that a grand jury had indicted Anthony for first-degree murd3r, a charge that carries the gravest of consequences. Willis addressed the public with a somber tone, acknowledging the depth of pain and shock that has swept through the community. “We know this case has struck a deep nerve—here in Collin County and beyond. That’s understandable,” Willis said. “When something like this happens at a school event, it shakes people to the core.” The sense of disbelief and outrage is palpable, with parents, students, and teachers all left to grapple with the reality that a place meant for competition and camaraderie became the setting for a fatal encounter.

As the legal process unfolds, both sides are preparing for what will undoubtedly be a highly emotional and closely watched trial. No trial date has been set, but the anticipation is building, and the community remains on edge, desperate for answers and closure. In the court of public opinion, emotions have run high. Many have called for the harshest punishment possible, with some even demanding the d3ath p3nalty for Anthony. Social media is awash with heated arguments, and the case has become a lightning rod for discussions about youth violence, school safety, and the justice system itself.

However, despite the public outcry, Anthony will not face the d3ath p3nalty. The law is clear, and the district attorney’s office has confirmed that this ultimate punishment is not on the table. For some, this news has only fueled further anger; for others, it’s a small comfort that the legal process will play out according to the rules, not the mob’s demands.

As both families try to find a way forward, the community is left with difficult questions and a lingering sense of loss. The outcome of the trial remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: the story of Karmelo Anthony and Austin Metcalf will haunt Collin County for a long time to come.

Austin Metcalf’s Father Reacts To Decision On Karmelo Anthony

Karmelo Anthony (Photo via Twitter)
Karmelo Anthony, accused of fatally st@bbing a fellow teen at a high school track meet, will not face the DɆATH penalty.

Law enforcement sources told TMZ Sports that prosecutors will not seek the DɆATH penalty, partly because Anthony was 17 at the time and is too young under Texas law to be eligible. Instead, he faces up to life in prison.

Jeff Metcalf, the dad of Austin Metcalf, was not thrilled with this decision.

He told TMZ he would have “100 percent” supported the DɆATH p3nalty if Karmelo had been 18 at the time of the incident.

“Doesn’t matter what I think,” he told us. “Nothing will bring my son back.”

He added, “It’s the law, unfortunately. If it would have happened 6 weeks later, he would have been 18. Then it’s a different ball game. We have to play the cards we are dealt.”

Despite everything, Jeff is “pleased” that the case is moving forward.

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Ant McPartlin’s absence at the King’s Trust Awards reception has been revealed after Dec Donnelly appeared without his right hand man at Buckingham Palace on Wednesday

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It has now been confirmed Ant was away on a family holiday so was unable to make the reception, with Dec attending alongside his wife Alison (pictured)

Yet it isn’t the first time Ant’s absence has been noted after the Geordie TV star failed to attend the reception for the winners of the 20th Prince’s Trust Awards at the palace in May 2024.

King Charles couldn’t contain his laughter during a sweet encounter with Dec as he asked where his right-hand man was.

Explaining why Ant wasn’t able to attend his event, Dec joked that Ant was ‘too busy breastfeeding’ after welcoming his first child with wife Anne-Marie, a son named Wilder.

Dec said: ‘Good to see you, nice to see you too. He’s [Ant] not here today but he sends his apologises. He’s got a week old baby so he’s home breastfeeding or something.’

King Charles asked: ‘Is it his first one [child]?’

Dec responded: ‘Yeah, it’s his first one. They’ve got daughters from previous marriages but it’s his first one.’

‘So will you please give him my many congratulations’, King Charles added.

Dec said: ‘I will, of course.’

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Yet it isn’t the first time Ant’s absence has been noted after the Geordie TV star failed to attend the reception for the winners of the 20th Prince’s Trust Awards in May 2024

Explaining why Ant wasn’t able to attend his event, Dec joked that Ant was ‘too busy breastfeeding’ after welcoming his first child with wife Anne-Marie, a son named Wilder

Meanwhile George Clooney and wife Amal were in good spirits on Wednesday as they arrived hand in hand at the event

Meanwhile George and wife Amal were in good spirits on Wednesday as they arrived hand in hand at the event. 

The Hollywood icon, 64, and his human rights lawyer wife, 47, dressed to impress as they attended the reception celebrating the winners at the palace. 

The actor was back to his grey locks, much to the delight of his wife who George previously said ‘hated’ the freshly brown dyed locks he had for his latest Broadway show.  

The couple couldn’t contain their smile as King Charles III chatted away to the couple before greeting guests.

The Clooneys have long supported the work of The King’s Trust, formerly known as The Prince’s Trust.

The Amal Clooney Women’s Empowerment Award, launched in 2019 with the Trust, celebrates the achievements of inspirational female youngsters around the world.

The actor cut a dapper figure in a grey suit which he teamed with a matching open collar shirt.

George and Amal couldn’t contain their smile as King Charles III chatted away to the couple before greeting guests

Charles appeared to be in high spirits as he chatted with George, Amal and Charlotte Tilbury

Meanwhile Amal made sure to turn heads in a black off the shoulder gown which she teamed with towering heels and a gold clutch.

The King met with the winners of the eight UK categories during the day as well as the three winners of the three global categories ahead of the awards ceremony, which will be held at the Royal Festival Hall on Thursday.

Also mingling with the royal was make-up mogul Charlotte Tilbury, who looked to enjoy a spirited chat with the royal, and national treasure Dame Joanna Lumley.

Actor Joseph Fiennes, presenter Fearne Cotton, Rosie Huntingdon-Whiteley and members of girl group the Sugababes were also present at the glitzy reception.