The family of Karmelo Anthony, the teen accused of fatally stabbing Austin Metcalf in the heart, is facing fierce backlash after increasing their legal fundraiser goal to nearly $1.4 million — just hours after a grand jury indicted Anthony for first-degree murder.
Fundraiser Sparks Controversy
Anthony, now 18, was charged in the April 2 stabbing of Metcalf, 17, during a track meet in Frisco, Texas. He claimed self-defense and has been on house arrest since being released on a $250,000 bond.
His family initially launched a fundraising campaign on GiveSendGo to cover legal expenses, personal security, and relocation costs, citing threats and public exposure of their address. The campaign has already raised over $500,000 — but following the indictment, the fundraising target jumped to $1,396,725.
Social media exploded with criticism. Many users questioned why the family was collecting money while the victim’s loved ones grieve.
“They should confiscate the money from the family that raised half a million dollars for Karmelo and give it to the family that lost their son!” one user wrote.
Another added:
“Is there any way I can take money from Karmelo Anthony’s GoFundMe? That would at least bring some form of justice.”
Family Defends Fundraiser
Karmelo’s father, Drew Anthony, addressed the public in a lengthy Facebook post Tuesday, saying the fundraiser wasn’t just for legal costs but to help the family rebuild their lives after facing public threats.
“Now, as the legal process moves toward trial, we enter an even more intense phase — one that will demand everything from us emotionally, financially, and spiritually,” he wrote.
“This is about every young person’s right to a fair process, and every family’s right to safety, dignity, and justice.”
He insisted the family is simply trying to secure safety, legal support, trauma counseling, and basic living needs in the wake of the incident.
Despite the explanation, critics remained unconvinced, pointing to speculation about the family buying a new home and the optics of asking for more money after a murder indictment.
‘Justice Must Be Served’
Meanwhile, Austin Metcalf’s father, Jeff Metcalf, expressed relief following the indictment.
“I am pleased that we are moving forward,” he said.
“With the first-degree murder indictment, it now goes into the court system. I fully believe that justice will be served for Austin Metcalf. I look forward to the trial — but it will never bring my son back.”
The emotional tension between the two families spilled into public view back in April when Metcalf’s father silently protested at the Anthony family’s press conference about the fundraiser. He was later escorted out.
During that event, Karmelo’s mother, Kala Hayes, broke down in tears, insisting that all funds were being used for safety and legal support.
“Our family has been under attack,” she said.
“The lies and false accusations… have been overwhelming.”
Trial Ahead
Anthony’s attorney, Mike Howard, responded to the indictment by expressing confidence in the legal process.
“Karmelo and his family are confident in the justice system and the people of Collin County to be fair and impartial,” Howard said in a video statement.
“Of course, Karmelo looks forward to his day in court.”
A trial date has not yet been set. If convicted, Anthony could face life in prison.
The legal battle, public outrage, and emotional toll continue to mount as both families prepare for what’s shaping up to be one of the most closely watched trials in Texas this year.
