A tragic incident at a Frisco high school track meet continues to reverberate throughout the community. In April, 17-year-old Austin Metcalf lost his life after a fatal stabbing during a UIL event. Karmelo Anthony, also 17 at the time and a student from Frisco Centennial High School, was arrested and charged with murder in connection to the incident. Although Anthony has since turned 18 and was released from jail on a reduced bond, the situation remains tense as graduation approaches. While he may meet academic requirements for graduation, the school district has made it clear he will not be allowed to walk the stage with his classmates.
Frisco Independent School District (FISD) issued a formal statement to address public concern and confusion, especially following claims made by a civil rights group that Anthony would be allowed to attend the ceremony. Superintendent Dr. Mike Waldrip clarified that any student involved in a major criminal offense, particularly those classified under Title V felonies, is prohibited from participating in graduation festivities. The district emphasized that maintaining a secure and respectful environment is paramount, and it will not celebrate or validate acts of violence within the school community. Waldrip also warned that any unauthorized presence on school grounds by such individuals would result in immediate action, including potential arrest.
This statement came shortly after the Next Generation Action Network, which has represented Anthony’s family, suggested he would be allowed to attend graduation. The group later retracted elements of their statement, citing an agreement that barred them from commenting further. During an earlier press conference, a representative of the group confirmed that Anthony’s academic standing was sufficient for him to graduate, noting he did not need to attend classes for the remainder of the year. However, while his educational record may support the issuance of a diploma, ceremonial participation remains off the table due to the criminal charges he faces.
Frisco ISD has also responded to what it described as misinformation circulating in the media. Without disclosing specific student information due to privacy laws, the district asserted that several reports contained inaccuracies that may distort public understanding. Superintendent Waldrip expressed disappointment over how the incident has overshadowed the accomplishments of other students. He called out what he labeled as “fear-mongering” and emphasized that the district’s focus remains on ensuring a safe and supportive environment for all students and staff.
The fatal stabbing at Kuykendall Stadium occurred during a UIL District 11-5A track event. Arrest records state that Anthony told a school resource officer that Metcalf had physically confronted him. Anthony allegedly questioned whether the act could be viewed as self-defense. According to reports, once in custody, he stated, “I did it,” acknowledging his involvement in the incident. On April 14, Anthony was released after his bond was lowered from $1 million to $250,000. As the community prepares for the upcoming school year’s end, including Centennial High School’s graduation on May 22, the shadow of this tragedy continues to loom large over Frisco.
