Austin Metcalf, 17, was reportedly killed by a fellow student while attending a Texas track meet on Wednesday. Karmelo Anthony allegedly stabbed Metcalf to death during an altercation. 

The Details: Metcalf, a junior at Frisco Memorial High School, was stabbed in the heart in what his family referred to as a “senseless” act of violence. He was pronounced dead after being rushed to a nearby hospital. Anthony, a 17-year-old student at Frisco Centennial High School, was charged with first-degree murder. He allegedly admitted to the crime but asked an officer if he could claim he acted in self-defense.

For Context: The altercation between Metcalf and Anthony allegedly began after Metcalf told Anthony he was sitting in the wrong seat. Things then escalated physically – after Metcalf allegedly put his hands on Anthony – and resulted in the stabbing, all of which “really was under 30 seconds,” according to Metcalf’s twin brother. 

Key Quote: While speculation spread quickly about race being tied to the conflict (Metcalf is white and Anthony is black), Metcalf’s father said, “This was not a race thing. This is not a political thing.”

How The Media Covered It: Some social media users on the right have criticized the news media – particularly on the left – for not covering the story more substantially, accusing outlets of lacking in coverage due to the races of the boys. Others countered the accusations by referencing Anthony’s prompt murder charge. Coverage was not prominent on the left. Both ABC News (Lean Left bias) and New York Post (Lean Right) focused on the emotion encompassing the incident. Outlets on the right often additionally highlighted the prayerful remarks of Metcalf’s father. Hindustan Times (Center) reported alternatively on a GoFundMe campaign launched for Anthony, who it frames as a “well-mannered man” who allegedly acted in self-defense.

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