Donations for Texas youth stabbed to death at track meet now match alleged killer’s

Fueled by the fire of injustice, donations have come roaring in for the family of Austin Metcalf, a Texas teen who was knifed to death by another young man during a dispute at a high school track meet.

Following media reports that accused killer Karmelo Anthony’s defenders had raised more money than Metcalf’s grieving family, donations – and cries for justice – have come pouring into the victim’s GoFundMe page.

Several large gifts, including a $10,000 donation, have pushed the total to more than $500,000, roughly equal to the amount raised by Anthony’s family through GiveSendGo, one of the only crowdfunding sites that allows fundraisers for people accused of violent crimes. 

Anthony’s family, which has hired a defense team including activist Dominique Alexander of the Next Generation Action Network (NGAN), faced criticism after moving into a large home in a gated community and hiring a security detail following the incident. 

On Thursday, Alexander and Anthony’s parents refused to start a public press conference until police removed Jeff Metcalf, the victim’s father, from the room. Alexander called Metcalf’s presence “a disrespect to the dignity of his son,” something that has understandably upset Metcalf’s supporters. 

“I find the Anthony family and that creepy spokesperson to be absolute grifters, profiting from your pain,” posted Metcalf donor Geeta Patel, a self-described Hindu and one of many to share views from a religious perspective. 

“The way in which the premeditated murder of your son has been nauseatingly twisted into a race issue makes me angry, and also sad for the black community who can see this for what it is – the [wanton] murder of a white boy by a black boy who harbors white hate,” she wrote. 

“Mr. Metcalf, I know you are a Christian and have a forgiving heart, but please sue that family in a civil court. Do not allow your kindness to let them get away with your loss. I will be praying for you and your family …” 

Maymunah Salafiyyah, a self-described Muslim, posted:  

“I just would like to give my condolences and say that I am truly outraged and so sad for your family. I was in tears several times seeing the nasty and racist defense for Karmelo over race. Austin did not deserve this and in my religion of Islam what Karmelo did is something that we deem very harmful/sinful given the fact that our way preaches peaceful resolution not meeting the enemy with force unless absolutely necessary. 

“This wasn’t a dire situation, it was a high school track meet on a rainy day. This never should have happened and to the Muslim donation I saw on Karmelos fundraiser making dua (giving a prayer) for his victory you really need to check yourself because you definitely do not have the morals of a Muslim. May Allah allow justice to prevail as he always does and may all evil be exposed and revealed.” 

Yet, donations continue to pour in for Anthony, 17, who is charged with first-degree murder and will be tried as an adult under Texas law. If found guilty, he could face life in prison with the possibility of parole after 40 years. 

Anthony, who did not have a prior arrest record, has claimed he acted in self-defense. 

“I support your son. It’s difficult raising black males in this country. Thank you for standing strong for your family,” posted Sundra Mccoy with her $20 gift in support of Anthony. 

“We got your back brother, may the most high protect you and your family. Praying for you,” wrote an anonymous giver on Anthony’s page. 

Anthony’s family and supporters have reportedly launched a merchandise line, selling “FreeMelo” T-shirts for $25-$30, as well as hats, with funds going toward his legal defense.