Karmelo Anthony's defense team lost their motion for a retrial on Saturday after a two-day court hearing in Texas. This decision follows the conviction of the 19-year-old for murder and a 35-year prison sentence for fatally stabbing 17-year-old Austin Metcalf during a track meet in April 2025.
Judge Michael Chitty denied the retrial request after reviewing the evidence and arguments presented, but did not provide further details. Chitty was appointed to oversee this motion after Anthony's attorneys successfully removed Judge John Roach from the case, citing his television interview in which he agreed with the jury's verdict shortly after the trial concluded.
The defense plans to appeal Chitty's decision. Lead counsel Russell Wilson stated, "Our commitment to our client has not changed. We will continue to advocate vigorously on his behalf through every lawful avenue available."
State prosecutors expressed support for the judge's ruling while acknowledging the appeals process. Collin County District Attorney Greg Willis stated, "We respect, and expected, the court’s decision denying the motion for a new trial. The jury’s guilty verdict stands, and we remain confident in the process."
During the hearing, prosecutors presented text messages from Anthony on the day of the murder, which were not disclosed during the trial due to an agreement to exclude character evidence. These messages included references to violence and indicated a troubling state of mind leading up to the incident.
The confrontation that led to Metcalf's death reportedly began over a seating dispute. The defense argued self-defense, but the jury rejected this claim. The trial drew national attention, particularly regarding the racial composition of the jury, as there were no black jurors assigned to the case, raising questions about jury impartiality.
Texas state Rep. James Talarico commented on the absence of black jurors, suggesting systemic issues, while Rep. Brandon Gill countered that Talarico's stance favored the defendant over the victim based on race.