A Texas judge has denied a request for a new trial for Karmelo Anthony, who was convicted of murder for the fatal stabbing of 17-year-old Austin Metcalf at a high school track meet. The incident occurred in April 2025 in Frisco, Texas, and drew national attention.

Anthony, 19, received a 35-year prison sentence following his conviction at the Collin County Courthouse in June. The petition for a retrial was dismissed by Judge Michael Chitty after a two-day hearing. The decision was based on a review of the evidence and arguments, though no detailed explanation was provided.

Russell Wilson, Anthony’s attorney, expressed the defense’s intention to appeal the decision, stating, “Our commitment to our client has not changed. We will continue to advocate vigorously on his behalf through every lawful avenue available.”

Collin County District Attorney Greg Willis supported the court’s ruling, emphasizing the fairness of the trial. “We respect, and expected, the court’s decision denying the motion for a new trial,” Willis said. He expressed confidence in the jury’s verdict and shared sympathies with Metcalf’s family during their difficult time.

During the trial, defense attorneys requested another trial, arguing that Judge John Roach had imposed restrictive courtroom rules which they claimed limited public access. They also sought Roach’s recusal, citing his posttrial comments to a Dallas TV station advocating the jury’s decision.

Judge Roach justified his rules as necessary for conducting a fair trial. Prosecutors maintained that Roach acted appropriately.

The case became a focal point of social media debate, often viewed through a racial lens, although attorneys from both sides asserted that race was not a factor. Anthony claimed self-defense during the confrontation with Metcalf, which took place in the bleachers, but his claims were ultimately rejected by the jury.