Jeff Metcalf never imagined he’d have to identify his son’s body on a high school track field. But on April 2, that’s exactly what happened after 17-year-old Austin was stabbed to death during a seemingly minor argument over seating.
According to witnesses, Austin had asked another competitor, Karmelo Anthony, to move from an area designated for his team. The request escalated into a physical confrontation, culminating in Anthony allegedly stabbing Austin in the chest with a knife pulled from his backpack.
Austin’s twin brother, Hunter, cradled him as he bled out, whispering prayers until paramedics arrived. It was too late.
“Who brings a knife to a track meet?” Jeff asked in disbelief. “This wasn’t just a fight—it was murder.”
As the Metcalf family prepares to bury their son, the community has rallied around them, raising thousands to support them in their grief. But no amount of money can bring back the bright, ambitious teen whose life was stolen in an instant.
Austin’s death is a sobering reminder of how quickly tempers can flare—and how one reckless decision can destroy countless lives.
