The family of Austin Metcalf, a Texas teenager who was murdered over a year ago, continues to endure threats and harassment following the conviction of Karmelo Anthony for the killing. Jeff Metcalf, Austin’s father, spoke about the ongoing distress his family faces as a result of the tragedy. “I receive disgusting text messages and voicemails,” Jeff said. “I woke up today with more vile messages.” His family members also receive threats.
According to the Frisco Police Department, multiple online threats have been directed at the Metcalf family. Although no arrests have been made, investigations are underway. Police have heightened patrols around the Metcalf home to ensure their safety. Reports of any direct threats can be made through the Tip411 app or by calling 972-292-6010.
The emotional and financial strain has been immense for the Metcalf family.
Jeff explained that the harassment extends beyond his immediate family. After a court session, a group of Austin’s friends were confronted by a hostile crowd. “They were yelled at and threatened,” Jeff said, describing the impact on these young people.
Jeff also addressed the public’s oversight of the trauma faced by witnesses of the murder. “The young people who saw the stabbing live with this trauma daily,” he stated. A crowdfunding campaign for Karmelo Anthony has raised questions, being shut down after raising hundreds, while over $600,000 had been gathered previously to support Anthony’s family.
Jeff believes surveillance footage of Austin’s stabbing should be released to clarify what transpired. “The video shows a brief encounter culminating in a stabbing,” he insisted. “Claims that Anthony was jumped or surrounded are false.” Despite enduring misinformation about the case, Jeff refrains from directly criticizing Anthony’s family but allows their actions to speak for themselves.
Jeff found pride in Austin’s twin brother Hunter, who testified during the trial. “You went to the stand as a boy but came away a man,” he told Hunter. His pride in Hunter helps him cope with the loss. Yet, the burden of losing Austin remains unimaginable. “Losing Austin has been the toughest experience of my life,” Jeff concluded.