In McKinney, Texas, a judge will assess whether teenager Karmelo Anthony should receive a new trial after his murder conviction. Anthony was found guilty of stabbing a 17-year-old at a high school track meet. The original judge, John Roach, was replaced with Michael Chitty, who will review the retrial motion.

Karmelo Anthony, sentenced to 35 years in prison, appeared in court in a green prison jumpsuit. Both his parents and the victim’s, Austin Metcalf, were present. Anthony’s legal team argued for Roach’s removal due to a TV interview, in which Roach said the jury reached the correct verdict. His attorneys claim unfair courtroom conduct and jury instructions in June’s trial.

During the original trial, jurors dismissed Anthony’s self-defense argument. Witnesses recalled a conflict at the Memorial High School tent. They testified that Metcalf confronted Anthony about occupying the tent in bad weather, prompting an escalation. Prosecutors depicted Anthony as the instigator. He reportedly threatened, “Touch me and see what happens,” before Metcalf’s push led to the fatal stabbing.

The case attracted national attention, sparking racial discussions when social media amplified the incident. Notably, Anthony is Black, while Metcalf was White. Attorneys insisted race was not a factor. During the recusal hearing, the focus remained on Roach’s post-trial comments to a Dallas TV outlet, asserting the jury’s decision was accurate.

Both families reported harassment amid the case’s rising profile, as online discourse grew. Several schools were at the track event during the altercation. Witnesses described Anthony’s aggressive behavior preceding Metcalf’s death.