Austin Metcalf’s father, Jeff Metcalf, is speaking out after Karmelo Anthony was convicted of murder and sentenced to 35 years in prison, accusing Anthony’s parents of benefiting from the case through a massive online fundraiser. His comments came shortly after a court gag order was lifted, allowing both families to speak publicly again.
Jeff appeared on the JinxedSip podcast and directed much of his anger toward Karmelo’s parents, Andrew Anthony and Kala Hayes. During the interview, he repeatedly accused them of failing to take responsibility and claimed they used the public attention surrounding the case to raise money.
The fundraiser, titled “Help Karmelo Anthony Official Fund,” was launched after Anthony’s arrest in connection with the fatal stabbing of 17-year-old Austin Metcalf at a Frisco, Texas, track meet in April 2025. The campaign eventually raised more than $630,000 before it was shut down after Anthony’s conviction.
The fundraiser was originally described as a way to help cover legal expenses and other family-related costs. Supporters donated as the case gained national attention, with Anthony’s family saying they needed help because of legal fees, relocation concerns, and threats connected to the case.
After Anthony was found guilty of first-degree murder and sentenced to 35 years in prison, GiveSendGo confirmed the campaign had been closed. Reports said the platform stated the fundraiser’s original purpose had been fulfilled and that the money had already been distributed.
Jeff Metcalf, however, criticized the campaign and questioned the actions of Anthony’s parents. He claimed they appeared publicly when donations were coming in but were not present in the way he believed they should have been after the verdict and sentencing.
During the interview, Jeff accused the family of portraying themselves as victims even after the jury found Anthony guilty. He argued that the focus should remain on Austin, the teenager who lost his life, rather than on Anthony’s family or the money raised after the arrest.
Jeff also said he believes Anthony’s parents helped deepen the divisions surrounding the case. The trial had already drawn intense public debate over race, self-defense, jury selection, and fairness, but Jeff said those arguments should not overshadow the fact that Austin never came home.
The interview became even more emotional near the end, when Jeff raised his middle finger toward the camera and delivered a blunt message to Anthony’s parents. The moment quickly spread online and added more controversy to a case that has continued to divide public opinion even after sentencing.
Anthony has already begun the appeals process, and supporters have reportedly looked for new ways to help fund the next stage of his legal battle. But for Jeff Metcalf, the original $630,000 fundraiser remains another painful part of the aftermath, as he continues to argue that his son’s death should not be turned into a source of attention or profit.
