Mother of Frisco Murder Suspect Speaks Out, Defends Family Amid Public Backlash

The mother of 17-year-old Karmelo Anthony spoke out about the April 2 stabbing death at a Frisco ISD track meet for the first time since her son was arrested. Austin Metcalf, also 17, was cut in the chest during the event and died. Anthony is charged with murder in connection with his death.

At an emotional news conference put together by the Next Generation Action Network (NGAN), Kayla Hayes talked about how her family has been closely watched, threatened, and harassed since her son was arrested. "My three younger children, my husband, and I didn't do anything to deserve to be threatened, harassed, and lied about because of what you think happened between Karmelo and the Metcalf boys," Hayes said.

She talked about how her family has been affected, including death threats and doxxing on social media. Her husband had to take time off work because he was worried about his safety. Hayes said, "My 13-year-old daughter is scared to sleep in her own bedroom."

Jeff Metcalf, Austin Metcalf's father, showed up, which made things tense. The news conference started almost an hour late. Dallas cops told him to leave not long before the event began. 

Dominique Alexander of NGAN said that Metcalf's appearance was "an insult to his son's honor."

Along with denying rumors that donations were misused, Hayes also said that the family had not yet gotten any money from a crowdfunding effort. "We were just told yesterday that we could start taking out money," she explained.

The family wouldn't discuss specifics of the case, but Hayes asked for justice and patience while the investigation continues. "The law gives everyone the same rights, and our son deserves them too," she said. The family asked everyone to stay out of the case and refrain from judging or discriminating during the court process.