Kathmandu— A Texas judge denied a request for a new trial Saturday for Karmelo Anthony, who was convicted of murder in connection with the April 2025 stabbing death of 17-year-old Austin Metcalf at a high school track meet near Dallas. The case garnered national attention and sparked racial tensions online, leading to harassment of both families involved. Anthony, 19, was sentenced to 35 years in prison in June after being found guilty. Judge Michael Chitty denied the motion following a two-day hearing, citing a review of evidence and arguments without providing further explanation.

Defense Arguments for Retrial

Anthony’s attorneys sought a new trial based on several grounds, including an alleged off-the-record agreement between prosecutors and the defense to withhold damaging character evidence about both teenagers. They argued that concerns over prosecutors potentially breaking this agreement led them to alter their defense strategy and ultimately prevent Anthony from testifying. The defense also claimed that strict courtroom rules imposed by the original trial judge, John Roach, limited public access to the proceedings. Furthermore, they requested Roach’s recusal due to a post-trial television interview where he expressed agreement with the jury's verdict.

Prosecution Defends Trial Fairness

Collin County District Attorney Greg Willis stated that his office expected and respected the court’s decision. Prosecutor Bill Wirskye defended the original trial as fair, asserting that all procedures were followed correctly. The prosecution maintained that Judge Roach’s rules were necessary to ensure a just trial and did not constitute misconduct. They also emphasized that the jury's guilty verdict stands and expressed continued support for the Metcalf family.

Details of the Stabbing Incident

Witness testimony revealed that Anthony and Metcalf, athletes from different high schools in Frisco, Texas, were involved in an escalating confrontation at a track meet on a rainy spring day. Anthony had sat under the tent belonging to Metcalf’s team and was repeatedly asked to leave. Witnesses identified Anthony as the aggressor after he allegedly provoked Metcalf and threatened him, saying “Touch me and see what happens” while reaching into a bag. The altercation culminated in Anthony pulling out a knife and stabbing Metcalf in the chest.

Racial Tensions and Social Media Response

The case attracted significant attention online, with social media posts amplifying the killing along racial lines—Anthony is Black, and Metcalf was white. Despite this, lawyers for both sides repeatedly told jurors that race played no role in the incident. The widespread dissemination of information on social media also led to harassment directed at both families involved.

Russell Wilson, Anthony’s attorney, indicated that the defense will appeal the judge's decision, continuing their advocacy on behalf of their client.

(With inputs from AP)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.