Judge rules no new trial for Texas teen convicted of track meet murder

A Texas judge has denied a teenager’s request for a new trial in the killing of Austin Metcalf, a 17-year-old who was fatally stabbed at a track meet. Karmelo Anthony, 19, was convicted of murder and ordered to serve a 35-year sentence. Anthony never denied stabbing Metcalf, but argued he acted in self-defense. The teens began arguing in April 2025 after Anthony stood under a tent for Metcalf’s school, where Anthony did not attend. While appellate attorneys succeeded in getting trial Judge John Roach recused, they failed to persuade Judge Michael Chitty to overturn the jury’s verdict. The denial cited a review of motion records, evidence, briefs, and case law; defense attorneys said they will keep appealing in Texas’ Fifth Court of Appeals.