Texas judge denies Karmelo Anthony’s request for new trial in deadly stabbing at track meet

Dallas (AP) — A Texas judge ruled against granting Karmelo Anthony a new trial on Saturday, in connection with the fatal stabbing of a 17-year-old athlete at a high school track meet. The incident sparked national attention and caused distress among the families involved.

Anthony, 19 years old at the time, had been convicted of murder in June and subsequently sentenced to 35 years in prison for the April 2025 incident. Judge Michael Chitty denied the request for a retrial following a two-day hearing, citing a thorough examination of the evidence and arguments presented. Chitty failed to provide further details on his decision.

Anthony's legal representative, Russell Wilson, stated that the defense would appeal the decision. "Our commitment to our client remains unwavering," Wilson affirmed. "We will persist in advocating vigorously on his behalf through all lawful channels at our disposal."

Prosecutor Bill Wirskye maintained that the trial was conducted fairly. "We acknowledge and anticipate the court's decision to deny the motion for a new trial," Wirskye commented. "The jury's guilty verdict remains firm, and we continue to believe in the justice system. Each defendant retains the right to appeal, and we extend our thoughts and sympathies to the Metcalf family during this challenging time."

Anthony's legal team also appealed for a retrial, citing concerns that the trial judge's stringent courtroom rules restricted public access to the proceedings. They further requested Roach's removal from the case, pointing out that he made a post-trial TV appearance where he expressed satisfaction with the jury's decision. Roach argued that his rules were essential for ensuring a fair trial, with prosecutors denying any wrongdoing on their part.

The case garnered significant attention due to the spread of social media posts that framed the killing in racial terms. Anthony is Black, while the victim, Austin Metcalf, was white. Both defense lawyers and prosecutors emphasized that race was not a factor in the case. Jurors ultimately rejected Anthony's assertion that he had acted in self-defense during a confrontation with Metcalf in the bleachers during the track meet.