FRISCO, Texas – The Frisco police said one student was killed, and another student is in custody after two students got into a fight on Wednesday at the UIL District 11-5A Championship track meet.
Frisco Track Meet Stabbing
Police were called around 10 a.m. to the David Kuykendall Stadium about a fight between two students that ended with one stabbing the other.
The 17-year-old victim, Austin Metcalf, was taken to the hospital. He was later pronounced dead.
The 17-year-old suspect, Karmelo Anthony of Frisco, was placed in custody. He was charged with murder and is being held without bond.
Frisco police said this is an active and ongoing investigation.
Anyone with information is asked to contact the Frisco Police Department’s non-emergency number (972-292-6010) or submit a tip using Tip411 (text FRISCOPD + the tip to 847411).
The track meet was canceled following the incident.
Austin Metcalf
What we know:
The 17-year-old victim in the stabbing was identified as Austin Metcalf, by Frisco’s Memorial High School.
Metcalf was a junior at Memorial who was a member of the track and field team, played linebacker for the football and was in the National Honor Society.
A vigil for Metcalf was held at Hope Fellowship in Frisco on Wednesday.
What they’re saying:
Metcalf’s father, Jeff, spoke with FOX 4 on Wednesday.
The teen’s father says Metcalf’s twin brother was at the meet at the time of the stabbing and did all he could to save his brother’s life.
“His brother was holding him, trying to hold the blood in. My son watched his brother die in his arms,” he said.
He called his son a great friend and a leader.
“He was going to turn out to be a great individual and impact this world with positivity,” he said. “I was so proud.”
Metcalf also expressed sympathy for the suspect’s family.
“I feel for [the suspect’s] family because now their son will end up in prison and learn that he killed someone, and he devastated and killed my son who I can never get back. It’s unfortunate for everyone involved,” he said.
He says at this time he is leaning on his faith and hoping for change in the world.
“We have got to be kind to each other. You need to show compassion, show empathy. Not anger. Not rage. Teach your kids right from wrong and pray to God this doesn’t happen to yours,” he said.
Metcalf shared that his boys were his strength and that this wasn’t a goodbye to his son Austin.
“I know he’s with the Lord and I find comfort and peace in that.” he said. “When I kissed his forehead today as his body was cold, I ran my fingers through his hair. I told him it’s not goodbye, it’s see you later. I’ll join you at some point too, son, you just beat me to this place.”
Karmelo Anthony
What we know:
Karmelo Anthony, 17, is now charged with first-degree murder. No bond has been set at this time.
Anthony attends Frisco Centennial High School.
What we don’t know:
It’s unclear how Anthony got the knife into the meet or what exactly led up to the fight.
Vigil, Remembrances
What’s next:
In a letter to parents, the school’s principal says Metcalf’s death will be acknowledged during second period on Thursday.
School and district counselors will be available for students throughout the day.
Parents are encouraged to talk to their students before they come to school.
Leaders react
What they’re saying:
“We are deeply saddened by the tragic loss of a student within Frisco ISD. The Board of Trustees shares in the profound grief of this senseless act of violence and extends its deepest condolences to the victim’s family, friends, and loved ones. A young life ending far too soon is a heartbreaking reminder that violence is never the answer to conflict,” wrote Dynette Davis, a Frisco ISD trustee. “In times like these, we must come together in support and compassion. Students who need help processing this tragedy are encouraged to speak to their parents or guardians and to reach out to school counseling services for guidance and support.
“UIL is deeply saddened by the tragic incident that took place at the District 11-5A track meet on April 2 at Frisco ISD’s Kuykendall Stadium. UIL staff is in communication with district officials to provide support and assistance during this time,” said a spokesperson for the University Interscholastic League. “Our thoughts go out to those impacted.”
Frisco police initially identified Metcalf as a 16-year-old.
The Source: Information in this article is from the Frisco Police Department, Frisco ISD, the Frisco ISD athletics calendar, the UIL and conversations with Austin Metcalf’s father, Jeff.
