Legal Team for Texas Teen Stabbing Suspect Calls for Public Patience Amid Bond Reduction Request

Recently appointed attorneys representing Karmelo Anthony, who is accused of fatally stabbing teen track star Austin Metcalf, are urging the community to exercise patience and avoid rushing to judgment. The tragic incident occurred last week during a championship track meet in Frisco, Texas.

The attorneys, Bill Clark of Clark Law Firm and Kim Cole of K Cole Law, released a statement expressing their condolences to the Metcalf family. They conveyed the deep sadness felt by Karmelo and his family following the loss of Metcalf’s life.

In their statement, the legal team emphasized the importance of not jumping to conclusions. “During this difficult time, we urge the public to refrain from rushing to judgment until all the facts and evidence are presented. Karmelo, like every citizen in the United States, deserves a fair and impartial legal process. We are dedicated to protecting his rights throughout every phase of the justice system,” they stated.

Bond Reduction Request

Clark and Cole confirmed that they are actively seeking a reduction of Anthony’s bond, currently set at $1 million, labeling it as excessive. They assert that this bond figure does not reflect the nature of the case and does not serve justice.

Karmelo Anthony faces grave first-degree murder charges and is currently held at the Collin County Jail. His legal team’s efforts to lower the bond will be a central focus as the case progresses.

Incident Overview

The stabbing incident has drawn significant attention due to its shocking nature. Austin Metcalf, a 17-year-old junior at Memorial High School in Frisco, was fatally stabbed during an altercation related to a seating disagreement within a tent at the track meet.

As detailed in an arrest report obtained, the confrontation escalated after Metcalf asked Anthony to leave the Memorial High School tent. Reports indicate that Anthony responded by reaching into his bag and making a threatening remark: “Touch me and see what happens.” Following this, Metcalf attempted to push Anthony out of the tent.

The confrontation caught the attention of a school resource officer, the first to address the situation. Anthony reportedly claimed, “I was protecting myself. He put his hands on me.” This statement may play a crucial role in his defense as the case unfolds.

When police apprehended Anthony at the scene, an officer noted the presence of blood on Anthony’s left middle finger. This detail, among others, will likely serve as evidence in the ongoing investigation.

Statements Made During Arrest

According to the same arrest report, Anthony made an unprompted statement during his apprehension, proclaiming, “I’m not alleged, I did it.” He then inquired about Metcalf’s condition and whether his actions could be classified as self-defense. This admission, coupled with the circumstances surrounding the conflict, will be critical as the judicial process continues.

Support for Anthony

In the aftermath of the incident, a wave of donations and expressions of support for Anthony have emerged. A crowdfunding campaign established to assist Anthony’s family has reportedly raised over $218,000, with nearly 6,500 contributors as of Tuesday morning.

Donors have shared messages of encouragement, voicing their hopes for Karmelo’s well-being. One contributor noted, “It’s not much but I hope it helps. Karmelo has support from all over the country.” Another donor added, “Praying for your healing against bullying. My support is with you.” This financial and emotional backing illustrates that many followers are rallying around Anthony during this challenging time.

A Community in Mourning

The community’s response to the tragedy has been profound. Friends, family, and fellow students of Austin Metcalf have expressed their grief and called for social change surrounding issues of bullying and violence among youth. Memorial tributes and gatherings for Metcalf have been organized, reflecting the impact of his loss on the community.

Both families involved find themselves in a grave situation where the events surrounding the incident have sparked intense public discourse. The need for a thorough investigation and a respectful legal process is critical as both sides navigate this challenging chapter.

Looking Ahead

As the case progresses, the legal teams for both Karmelo Anthony and Austin Metcalf’s family will undoubtedly prepare for a long journey ahead. Supporters on both sides are encouraged to focus on justice and understanding, taking into account the complexities of youth interactions and the repercussions that can arise from them.

Fox News Digital has reached out to attorneys Bill Clark and Kim Cole for further comment as the situation develops. The tragedy serves as a stark reminder of the potentially devastating consequences that can emerge from conflicts among young individuals.

Reporting by Fox News’ Sarah Runpf-Whitten and Brooke Taylor.