Karmelo Anthony, the 17-year-old accused of murdering football star Austin Metcalf, could have acted in self-defense, according to his lawyer. Anthony is charged with fatally stabbing Metcalf during a track meet in Frisco, Texas. The incident has shocked the community, but Anthony’s attorney insists that his client was simply protecting himself. This claim of self-defense will be central to the defense strategy as the case moves forward.

The lawyer, Deric Walpole, spoke publicly about his client’s side of the story. He says Anthony acted out of fear for his safety, and he has no reason to disbelieve his claim of self-defense. Walpole’s statement came after he met with Anthony for the first time in jail on Friday. The defense attorney also announced that he plans to request a hearing to lower Anthony’s $1 million bond. If successful, this could allow the teenager to be released before his trial. Walpole’s main focus is to investigate the facts and clarify what led to the fatal stabbing.

Lawyer Believes Karmelo Anthony Stabbed in Self-Defense

Walpole is firm in his belief that the stabbing could have been an act of self-defense. He explained that Anthony claimed he was defending himself when the altercation occurred. “I don’t have any reason to disbelieve that,” Walpole said. The lawyer also mentioned that he needs time to gather facts and talk to witnesses before making a final judgment. At this point, Walpole believes that self-defense is the most plausible explanation. He made it clear that he would not rush to conclusions but intends to get to the truth through further investigation.

Anthony’s lawyer is working hard to defend his client. He is looking into all aspects of the case, including talking to potential witnesses and gathering evidence. Walpole wants to ensure that he fully understands what happened before making further statements. The lawyer has also taken the first steps to have the bond lowered, which could impact Anthony’s pretrial release. The goal is to secure the best possible outcome for his client while ensuring a fair legal process.

What Led to the Fatal Stabbing

The events leading up to the stabbing were tense and happened quickly. According to police, the incident began when Metcalf, a junior at Memorial High School, asked Anthony, a student from Centennial High, to move from under a pop-up tent. The tent had been set up for a rain delay during the track meet. When Anthony refused to move, Metcalf tried to push him out of the way.

At this point, things escalated fast. Witnesses say that Anthony immediately pulled out a black knife after warning Metcalf. “Touch me and see what happens,” Anthony allegedly told Metcalf. The stabbing followed quickly, and Metcalf took a blow to the chest. Despite efforts to stop the bleeding, he died in his twin brother’s arms.

Metcalf’s brother, Hunter, recalled the tragic scene in an emotional interview. He described how he tried to save his brother after the stabbing but couldn’t. “I put my hand on his chest, tried to make the bleeding stop. I looked into his eyes and saw his soul leave. It took my soul too,” Hunter said.

Karmelo Anthony’s Confession to Police

After the stabbing, Anthony fled the scene but was arrested soon after. During his arrest, he reportedly confessed to the crime. “I’m not alleged, I did it,” Anthony told the police. He also explained that he was acting in self-defense. “He put his hands on me,” Anthony allegedly said, justifying his actions.

This statement from Anthony is a key part of his defense. He insists that he was not the aggressor and was simply protecting himself. According to his version of events, Metcalf’s actions made him feel threatened, leading him to respond with force. Anthony’s lawyer focuses on this defense, aiming to prove the stabbing wasn’t premeditated and that he acted in self-defense in the heat of the moment.

Anthony’s Family Responds to the Claims

His family has also spoken out in defense of the teenager. His father, Andrew, addressed the media, stating that his son was provoked. “He wasn’t the aggressor. He didn’t start it,” Andrew said. The family believes that the public has already made up their minds about Anthony, but they want people to know that he is not the person they think he is.

Andrew described his son as an “A-student” who works two jobs. He emphasized that Anthony is a good kid who has been misunderstood by the media. This statement from the family shows their desire to protect Anthony’s reputation while they wait for the legal process to unfold. The family has also hired a public relations team to manage the case’s public image, though they have declined to comment further at this time.