Teen Charged With Murdering Austin Metcalf Granted House Arrest

Karmelo Anthony, who’s been charged with murdering Austin Metcalf, 17, had his bond drastically reduced and was granted house arrest, per a judge’s ruling on Monday.

Earlier this month, Metcalf was stabbed to death at a high school track meet in Texas after reportedly telling Anthony, 17, that he was sitting in the wrong seat. Anthony has been charged with murder and, according to an arrest warrant, told police of the fatal stabbing, “I did it.”

Initially, Anthony’s bond was set at $1 million, but a Collin County judge agreed to lower the bond to $250,000. The teen will be required to wear an ankle monitor and stay inside his parents’ home if the family can post bond, CBS News reports.

Anthony has been in the Collin County jail since April 2, the day of the fatal stabbing.

During the hearing, prosecutors asked Anthony’s father about an alleged separate “assault” involving the accused, which dates only a couple of months back, on February 4. Notably, the judge lowered the bond, citing Anthony’s lack of criminal history.

The prosecution also asked why the suspect’s family is not using the money donated to an online fundraiser for their child, which is nearing half a million dollars. The fundraiser says it was established by “The Anthony Family.” Defense attorneys argued that the fundraiser “is not a bond fund” but intended to help Anthony’s family while his father ” is currently on leave from work,” according to CBS News.

“The narrative being spread is false, unjust, and harmful,” the fundraiser reads. “As a family of faith, we are deeply grateful for all of your support during this trying period. Your prayers and assistance mean more to us now more than ever.”

Alternatively, a fundraiser for the victim’s family is hovering at just over $340,000.

“I am Jeff Metcalf. My son, Austin Metcalf, was tragically stabbed today at a school track meet. They were not able to save him,” the fundraiser says. “He was a bright young man with a great future ahead of him. He was a leader of men. His smile would light up the room. His passion for football was unbelievable. Voted team MVP this past season and carried a 4.0 GPA. He was looking forward to taking his game to the next level. His commitment, dedication, leadership, and sheer grit made him rise to the level of success that he desired.”

“His twin brother, Hunter, played beside him,” it continues. “We will all remember him for the way he impacted others’ lives. I love you forever, son. It’s not goodbye, it’s see you later. God will take care of us till we meet again. RIP. Love, Dad.”

Metcalf died in his twin brother’s arms, the victim’s father revealed.

Related: Racial Agitators Say Suspect In Stabbing Murder Of Teen Was Justified