FRISCO, Texas — Jury selection is set to begin today in the closely watched murder trial of Karmelo Anthony, the 18-year-old charged with the fatal stabbing of 17-year-old high school football player Austin Metcalf during a confrontation at a track meet last year.

Anthony faces first-degree murder charges in the death of Metcalf, which occurred in April 2025 at a high school track and field event in Frisco. According to prosecutors, the incident began as a dispute over seating in a tent area. Witnesses told police that Anthony pulled out a knife and stabbed Metcalf in the chest during the altercation.

Anthony has maintained that he acted in self-defense. However, multiple eyewitness accounts reportedly contradict that claim, stating that he was the aggressor.

The case gained national attention after Anthony was released on $250,000 bail earlier this year. His family and supporters reportedly raised over $600,000 through online crowdfunding, with some donations and public appeals linked to claims of “fighting white supremacy” and racial injustice.

Metcalf’s family has expressed outrage over Anthony’s release, arguing that the victim’s killer should not be allowed to live freely while they continue to grieve their son. Austin Metcalf was remembered as a talented athlete and beloved member of his community.

The upcoming trial is expected to center heavily on whether Anthony’s actions constituted murder or legitimate self-defense. Prosecutors will likely present witness testimony, physical evidence, and video footage from the event, while the defense will argue that Anthony feared for his life during the confrontation.

Anthony was 17 years old at the time of the stabbing but is being tried as an adult. If convicted of first-degree murder, he could face life in prison.

The case has sparked intense public debate about youth violence, knife crime, bail policies, and the influence of online fundraising in criminal cases. Court proceedings are expected to draw significant media coverage as jury selection gets underway.

Both families have asked for privacy and respect as the judicial process moves forward.