Karmelo Anthony murder trial in fatal stabbing of Austin Metcalf at Frisco ISD track meet

Rob Starr, the head track coach at Memorial, provided emotional testimony regarding the events of April 2, 2025, during a track meet where Memorial served as the host school.

Host Responsibilities and Student Roles

Coach Starr testified that because Memorial was the host school, the team was short on certain coaches due to various responsibilities. To manage the event, he enlisted the help of the team’s throwers, who are typically the leaders of the group.

Among those asked to assist were Austin and Hunter Metcalf, who were tasked with setting up tents. Starr noted that he had sent a text to Austin Metcalf on the day of the meet, stating that he needed to step up and help.

Did You Know? Memorial throwers, including Austin and Hunter Metcalf, were specifically tasked with the responsibility of setting up tents because throwers are typically viewed as leaders on the team.

Tensions and Team Dynamics

During his testimony, Starr admitted he had been slightly upset with Austin Metcalf leading into the district meet. He recalled a previous event where Austin threw and then left early to go fishing.

Starr stated that he had actually kicked Austin Metcalf off the team for that action, though he later allowed him to return after the two had a conversation.

The Moments Following the Incident

Around 10 a.m. On the day of the tragedy, Starr left his area to retrieve a crockpot from another coach waiting in concessions. While doing so, he heard a commotion and began jogging toward the scene, dropping the crockpot in the process.

Starr testified that he jumped a fence to reach the tent area, where he discovered Austin Metcalf on the ground. He described seeing that the student’s face was purple and that he had “a hole in his chest.”

Expert Insight: Samantha Carter suggests that the coach’s detailed recollection of the chaos—including the dropped crockpot and the frantic plea from the victim’s brother—underscores the sudden and traumatic nature of the event, which may influence how the jury perceives the immediate aftermath.

Encounter with the Accused

Holding back tears, Starr recalled Hunter Metcalf shouting, “Coach Starr, do something!” After being told that Karmelo Anthony “did it,” Starr hopped over a gate to stop Anthony.

Jurors selected in Karmelo Anthony murder trial. None are Black

Starr described the interaction as “surreal” and noted it was not violent. He testified that a hysterical Anthony told him, “He put his hands on me.”

Final Moments in Court

The coach described his own emotional reaction, stating he became very upset and threw his hat on the ground. He then spent time praying with the coaches while placing his hand on Austin Metcalf’s leg.

Starr also prayed with a hysterical Hunter Metcalf. He testified that it rained hard for a minute at that point, and he knew Austin Metcalf was gone.

As the testimony concluded, Austin Metcalf’s father, Jeff Metcalf, was observed wiping away tears in the courtroom. Following the direct examination, the prosecution passed the witness to the defence.

Potential Next Steps

Because the prosecution has finished its initial questioning, the defence may now cross-examine Coach Starr. This process could involve questioning the coach’s memory of the event or the specifics of the interaction with the accused.

Frequently Asked Questions

What was the role of the throwers at the track meet?

The throwers, including Austin and Hunter Metcalf, were enlisted by Coach Starr to help with host school responsibilities, specifically the setup of tents.

What did Karmelo Anthony say to Coach Starr?

According to Coach Starr’s testimony, a hysterical Karmelo Anthony said, “He put his hands on me.”

How did Coach Starr discover Austin Metcalf?

Starr heard a commotion while retrieving a crockpot, dropped the item, jogged toward the noise, and jumped a fence to find Metcalf on the ground.

How should schools balance student leadership roles with safety during high-pressure athletic events?