Meghan Metcalf never imagined she’d have to bury her 17-year-old son. But after Austin was stabbed to death at a school track meet, she’s left with only memories—and a message for parents everywhere.
“Hold your children close,” she urged through tears. “You never know when it’ll be the last time.”
Austin, a standout athlete with college dreams, was killed in a confrontation with another student, Anthony Karmel, who allegedly stabbed him after a heated exchange. Austin’s twin brother, Hunter, was there, holding him as he took his final breaths.
“I tried to help him,” Hunter said, recounting the horror of that moment. “I saw the life leave his eyes.”
The community has responded with an outpouring of support, but the pain remains unbearable. Meghan’s anger is mixed with disbelief—how could a moment of rage end her son’s life?
Anthony has been charged with murder, but no punishment will bring Austin back. His family is left with only one request: that his story reminds others to choose kindness over violence, before it’s too late.
