A newly revealed text message has added another layer of controversy to the legal battle surrounding Karmelo Anthony, who was convicted of killing 17-year-old Austin Metcalf at a Texas high school track meet.

During a recent hearing over Anthony’s request for a new trial, prosecutors revealed that Anthony had sent a message in 2023 threatening to “shoot the school up.” The message was never shown to the jury during his June 2026 murder trial.

Anthony was ultimately convicted of first-degree murder and sentenced to 35 years in prison after jurors rejected his claim of self-defense. His defense is now arguing that evidence restrictions and an informal agreement between the two sides affected the fairness of the trial.

The message was among several pieces of potentially damaging information that had been kept out of the original trial. Prosecutors also discussed allegations involving Anthony’s behavior toward a former girlfriend and other violent statements.

The unusual arrangement was reportedly intended to prevent the trial from becoming dominated by the troubling histories of both teenagers. However, Anthony’s new legal team argues that the agreement ultimately restricted the defense and may have influenced his decision not to testify.

The revelations came during Anthony’s attempt to obtain a new trial. That request was denied by a Texas judge on August 22, leaving his conviction and 35-year sentence in place for now.

Austin Metcalf’s father has since spoken publicly about the case, saying he forgave Anthony while still believing accountability was necessary for his son’s death.

The case continues to generate intense debate over self-defense, evidence that juries are allowed to hear, and whether the original trial fully presented the circumstances surrounding the fatal confrontation.

A previously undisclosed message has now become part of the debate — but it was never presented to the jury that convicted Anthony. ⚖️💔

Source: New York Post