In McKinney, Texas, the courtroom atmosphere was tense as the second day of testimony commenced in the murder trial of Karmelo Anthony. The teenager from Texas faces accusations of fatally stabbing high school student Austin Metcalf during a track meet. Before the day’s proceedings began on Friday, three individuals were removed from the Collin County courthouse. One woman exchanged harsh words with a sheriff’s deputy. Another individual, a blogger from North Carolina, was expelled for allegedly using a racial slur against a deputy. The third person might have been violating courthouse rules regarding cell phone use and recording.
Karmelo Anthony, aged 19 and Black, is on trial for the murder of Austin Metcalf, aged 17 and white. The incident involved a conflict over seating at a track meet in Frisco, Texas, on April 2, 2025. Demonstrators supporting Anthony gathered outside the courthouse on Thursday.
Anthony has entered a not guilty plea. His attorney, Mike Howard, argued on Thursday that the stabbing was an act of self-defense. However, Texas prosecutor Bill Wirskye described the incident as “unjustified provoked murder.” The trial has received national attention, partly due to its racial aspects. Criticism has emerged regarding the all-white jury and its lack of Black members.
On Friday, Texas state district judge John Roach Jr. addressed the courtroom attendees with a clear warning. He emphasized that any talking during the proceedings would lead to removal from the courtroom, banning return entry.
This coverage was provided by Maria Guerrero reporting from McKinney, Texas, and Suzanne Gamboa from Austin, Texas.
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