Guilty Verdict in Texas Murder Case Sparks Courthouse Clashes

Clashes erupted between demonstrators outside a Texas courthouse on Tuesday after Karmelo Anthony was found guilty of murder in the stabbing of Austin Metcalf last year.

Anthony, 19, received a 35-year prison sentence for the murder of Metcalf during a high school track event in Frisco, Texas, in April 2025. This verdict shifts the direction of a case that has attracted significant public attention regarding self-defense, youth violence, and racial tensions.

Following the verdict, tensions flared between opposing groups at the Collin County courthouse in McKinney. Videos circulating online showed chanting crowds and minor physical conflicts. Authorities were contacted for comments, but specifics are pending.

Key Details

Testimony and police records depict a brief altercation between Anthony and Metcalf in a crowded stadium tent, resulting in a stab wound to Metcalf’s chest. Anthony quickly surrendered to police, stating, “I was protecting myself.”

The jury convicted Anthony unanimously after deliberating for less than three hours. This followed a week of conflicting testimonies regarding whether the stabbing was an unjustified murder or an act of self-defense.

Concerns were raised about the jury selection process, noting that none of the 12 jurors and six alternates were Black. Anthony is Black, and Metcalf was white, heightening discussions on potential biases.

Social media posts indicated police intervened to disperse crowds, forming barriers between demonstrators. Independent verification from Newsweek on these claims is pending.

Courthouse security had been tightened, with restricted access and authorities granted extended powers to control the crowd. One individual was detained following a confrontation as officers worked to separate groups and maintain order.

This story is still evolving. Further updates will be provided as new information emerges.