The legal team for 17-year-old Karmelo Anthony, accused of fatally stabbing Austin Metcalf, also 17, has asserted that their client acted in self-defense. Anthony’s attorney, Deric Walpole, confirmed the claim while addressing the court’s decision to set bond at $1 million, a figure the defense intends to challenge. Walpole stated that due to limited time with his client—only a few hours so far—he plans to formally request a bond hearing in the coming week. The case has drawn significant attention as conflicting narratives emerge about the moments leading up to the tragic altercation.
According to witness accounts, the incident unfolded under a tent at their school, where Metcalf was seated before Anthony approached him. Tensions escalated when Metcalf reportedly told Anthony to leave, prompting Anthony to grab his bag and issue a warning: “Touch me and see what happens.” Unbeknownst to those present, Anthony was armed, though no one suspected he carried a weapon. Witnesses offered differing versions of what followed—some say Metcalf merely touched Anthony, while others claim he grabbed him. Regardless, the encounter turned deadly in an instant.
Without hesitation, Anthony allegedly pulled a knife from his backpack and stabbed Metcalf in the chest before fleeing the scene. The wounded teen, clutching his chest, managed to call out to his teammates for help but ultimately collapsed in his brother’s arms, where he succumbed to his injuries. The abrupt and violent nature of the attack has left the community reeling, with many questioning how a dispute between teenagers could end so tragically. Meanwhile, Anthony’s immediate admission to police—“I’m not alleged, I did it”—added another layer of complexity to the case.
During the ride to the police station, Anthony’s behavior took a more remorseful tone as he reportedly asked officers whether Metcalf had survived and if his actions could be legally justified as self-defense. These statements may play a pivotal role in the upcoming legal proceedings, as the defense prepares to argue that Anthony perceived a genuine threat. However, prosecutors are likely to scrutinize the severity of his response, particularly given the witness discrepancies about Metcalf’s level of physical contact.
As the case develops, the court will weigh the arguments surrounding Anthony’s bond reduction request while investigators piece together the precise sequence of events. The tragedy has not only devastated two families but also sparked broader conversations about youth violence and the legal boundaries of self-defense. With the bond hearing scheduled soon, the public awaits further clarity on whether Anthony’s claims will hold up under judicial scrutiny.