A Texas judge has rejected Karmelo Anthony’s request for a new trial, meaning his conviction in the case involving the death of Austin Metcalf will remain unchanged.

Anthony, 19, was previously found guilty in connection with the 2025 incident at a high school track meet near Dallas that claimed the life of 17-year-old Austin Metcalf. He was sentenced to 35 years in prison following the verdict.

Anthony’s legal team had argued that issues during the original trial, including courtroom procedures and jury instructions, affected the fairness of the proceedings. However, the court determined that those concerns were not enough to warrant a retrial.

The case began during a high school track event, where a confrontation occurred between Anthony and Metcalf. The incident quickly escalated, leading to Metcalf suffering fatal injuries.

Anthony maintained that he acted in self-defense, while prosecutors argued that his actions were not justified. After reviewing the evidence presented during the trial, jurors reached a guilty verdict.

The case received widespread attention across the country, with discussions surrounding youth violence, courtroom procedures, and the impact of a tragedy on two families.

Following the latest ruling, Anthony’s conviction and sentence remain in effect. Meanwhile, Austin Metcalf continues to be remembered by friends, teammates, and his community as a young athlete whose life ended far too soon.