What began as a typical athletic afternoon ended horrifically when a student fatally stabbed another at a track meet. 

On April 2, weather postponed the district championship meet in Frisco, TX, at Memorial High School around 10 a.m., according to ABC News. During the delay, a conflict occurred between two juniors, Austin Metcalf of Memorial High School and Karmelo Anthony of Centennial High School. The disagreement began when Anthony sat under the opposing school’s tent in the bleachers. Metcalf told Anthony he had to leave. Anthony responded by reaching into his bag and telling Metcalf, “Touch me and see what happens.” According to The Dallas News, “[Metcalf] then grabbed [Anthony] to tell him to move, and [Anthony] pulled out a knife, stabbed Metcalf once in the chest and ran away.” 

Austin Metcalf’s twin brother, Hunter Metcalf, was nearby during the encounter and witnessed the stabbing. He rushed in and held his brother, trying to stop the bleeding. Paramedics arrived, but it was too late. Jeff Metcalf, the victim’s father, told NBC 5 DFW, “He died in his brother’s arms … [r]ight there on the track where he was just trying to compete. It doesn’t make sense. None of this does.” 

The bleachers that once held eager fans became a painful reminder of a life cut short. One moment changed everything, and the community is left grieving the unimaginable loss.

Anthony claimed the stabbing was self-defense but has been charged with first-degree murder. Initially, his bail was $1 million, but after help from an attorney, it was reduced to $250 thousand. A GoFundMe for Anthony’s release reached nearly $300,000, according to Fox4 News. He was released under house arrest on Monday and is currently required to wear an ankle monitor.  

The effects of this situation are far-reaching. At Thunderbird, sophomore Gehrig Anderson expressed that the school has a resource officer to observe athletic events and protect students. He said that these regulations make him feel safe while attending athletic events.