Slain Teen Austin Metcalf’s Twin Brother Accepts Posthumous Diploma as Trial in Stabbing Case Approaches

The twin brother of Austin Metcalf accepted his posthumous diploma at the Memorial High School graduation ceremony held on May 21. Metcalf was fatally stabbed during a track meet at Kuykendall Stadium in April 2025 by a fellow batchmate. The murder trial in the case is scheduled to begin in June.

Austin Metcalf’s twin brother, Hunter, accepted the diploma on behalf of his twin brother shortly after receiving his own diploma. A standing ovation from the crowd present at the graduation ceremony followed the gesture.

According to reports from ABC affiliate WFAA, Hunter Metcalf was seen wearing a cap and gown as he joined the students in walking across the stage at the Ford Center on May 21. The emotional moment came when Hunter accepted his own diploma and then returned to collect his brother’s degree. The crowd acknowledged the tribute by giving a 30-second standing ovation during the event.

The defendant in the incident is identified as Karmelo Anthony, who is accused of first-degree murder in connection with the fatal stabbing in April 2025. The incident took place during a Frisco ISD track meet. The trial is scheduled to begin on June 1, according to the Collin County court records.

Witnesses told police the two 17-year-olds had argued during the meet that McTcalf pushed Anthony before Anthony stabbed him once in the chest. Anthony complied with officers, while being detained, reportedly acknowledged what happened and asked whether the victim would survive and whether the incident might be considered self-defense.

Anthony faces a charge of first-degree murder and has been on house arrest since his release on a reduced bond on April 14. If convicted, he could face a possible sentence of five to 99 years or life in prison. In the Texas criminal justice system, 17-year-olds are considered adults.

Anthony, a student at Frisco Centennial High School, was not allowed to participate in senior graduation activities. However, the Next Generation Action Network said an agreement was reached with the district for him to receive his high school diploma.

The case has drawn widespread public attention, generating intense community reaction, extensive online discussion, and sustained media coverage. Those factors led a Collin County judge to issue a gag order in 2025 and, in April 2026, to impose strict rules on media access, security and courtroom conduct ahead of the trial.