What began as a routine high school track meet ended in unthinkable tragedy when 17-year-old Austin Metcalf lost his life in a violent encounter that has stunned the community.
The promising student-athlete was fatally stabbed by a fellow student on the morning of April 2 at Kuykendall Stadium in Frisco, Texas. According to authorities, the two teens—both multi-sport athletes from different schools within the Frisco Independent School District—had never met before the day of the incident.
Witnesses say the confrontation began over something as trivial as a seat. Within seconds, the dispute escalated. The other student allegedly pulled a knife from his backpack and stabbed Austin in the chest. The entire altercation lasted less than 30 seconds.
First responders rushed to the scene and performed CPR while administering blood in a desperate effort to save Austin’s life. But despite their swift and valiant attempts, the 17-year-old was pronounced dead at the scene.
The loss has left the Frisco community reeling. Austin’s devastated father, Jeff Metcalf, shared that his son likely confronted the suspect about sitting in the wrong spot—and that the two had no prior history.
“This should never have happened,” Jeff said. “He didn’t even know the kid.”
Now, a family is left grieving a son full of promise, and a school district is grappling with how such senseless violence could unfold at what was meant to be a celebration of student achievement.
When Jeff Metcalf arrived at Kuykendall Stadium after the stabbing, he was confronted with a scene no parent should ever face — his son Austin, lying motionless on a stretcher, surrounded by blood.
“They said he wasn’t breathing. I could see all the blood and the wound… we prayed, but it’s God’s plan. I don’t understand it. They couldn’t save him. This is murder,” Jeff told NBC, his voice heavy with heartbreak.
Even more devastating, Austin’s identical twin brother, Hunter, witnessed the brutal attack and desperately tried to save his brother’s life.
“They were twins, identical twins. His brother was holding him, trying to stop the bleeding, and Austin died in Hunter’s arms,” Jeff said, choking back tears.
“I tried to save my brother,” Hunter shared with WFAA, his voice trembling as he recalled the moment. “I whipped around as fast as I could. I put my hand on him, grabbed his hand, looked into his eyes, and I just saw his soul leave — and it took mine, too.” Hunter held Austin tightly until first responders arrived.
On social media, Jeff reflected on the tragic loss:
“Seventeen years ago my life was changed forever. I was blessed with two beautiful twin boys who forever changed my world…”
Hunter described Austin as “a strong kid who did everything for our family.”
According to the family, the deadly confrontation began over a simple seating dispute in the stands.
Jeff explained, “They were sitting there when someone behind them started mouthing off. They asked, ‘Who are you?’ He said, ‘I’m Melo.’ They told him, ‘You don’t belong here. You don’t go to Memorial.’ He had a Centennial tracksuit on. They said, ‘Well, you need to leave. This isn’t your spot.’ Some harsh words were exchanged. Then the suspect said, ‘Make me.’ And then he stabbed my son in the heart — all over someone sitting in the wrong spot at a track meet.”
Remembering Austin
Austin was more than just a student; he was a leader, a dedicated athlete on the football team, and a young man admired by his peers.
“He was on the right path,” Jeff said. “He was loved by many. He was a leader.”
Jeff also questioned the values instilled in the teen responsible for his son’s death. “I’m not trying to judge, but what kind of parents let their child bring a knife to a track meet? He murdered my son by stabbing him in the heart.”
Investigation and Aftermath
The Frisco Police Department arrested 17-year-old Karmelo Anthony, charging him with murder.
In an official statement, police said, “The Frisco Police Department grieves with all those affected by this devastating loss and extends its deepest condolences to the victim’s family, students, and staff who are experiencing unimaginable pain.”
Authorities are working closely with the Frisco Independent School District to provide support to students, staff, and families during this heartbreaking time.
The 11-5A district championship track meet — featuring over 100 student-athletes from eight schools — was abruptly shut down following the fatal stabbing. Kuykendall Stadium was secured, and all students were promptly sent back to their campuses as investigators combed through the scene.
While officials have not revealed the exact location of the stabbing, police were seen closely examining a section of the stands near the track where the incident reportedly occurred.
An Outpouring of Support
In the wake of the tragedy, the Metcalf family has been overwhelmed by an outpouring of compassion from the community. A GoFundMe campaign started by Jeff Metcalf has already raised more than $175,000 — surpassing its $140,000 goal — fueled by over 1,300 generous donations.
In his fundraiser post, Jeff honored Austin’s spirit:
“He was a bright young man with a great future ahead of him. A leader of men. His smile could light up any room. His commitment, dedication, leadership, and sheer grit propelled him toward the success he sought.”
Despite the unimaginable pain, Jeff expressed a profound sense of forgiveness that few could muster:
“You know what, I already forgive this person. Already. God takes care of things. God will take care of me. God will take care of my family.”
No parent should have to bury their child. No twin brother should have to hold his brother as life slips away. This is the heartbreaking reality the Metcalf family now endures.
Violence like this steals more than just a life — it leaves a void that can never be filled. Austin’s story is a powerful reminder of how fragile life is, and how quickly it can be shattered.
Let this tragedy serve as a wake-up call: one reckless act can destroy not only a future but tear apart an entire community.
As the Metcalf family grieves this unimaginable loss, one truth remains undeniable — Austin’s legacy of kindness, leadership, and strength will live on forever in the hearts of all who knew him.
Rest in peace, Austin. You were deeply loved, and you will be profoundly missed.