Mother of Frisco Murder Suspect Speaks Out, Defends Family Amid Public Backlash

Kayla Hayes, the mother of Karmelo Anthony, publicly addressed the media for the first time since her son's arrest in connection with the stabbing death of Austin Metcalf during a Frisco ISD track meet. In a heartfelt message, she described the intense scrutiny and harassment her family has faced, stating that they did not deserve such treatment. Hayes revealed that her family has been subjected to death threats and social media doxxing, leaving her 13-year-old daughter terrified to sleep in her own bedroom. The news conference, organized by the Next Generation Action Network, was marred by tension as Jeff Metcalf, Austin's father, showed up and was asked to leave by police. Dominique Alexander of NGAN criticized Metcalf's presence as disrespectful to his son's memory.

Hayes also denied allegations that crowdfunding donations were mismanaged, explaining they had only recently been allowed to access the funds. She urged the public to withhold judgment and allow the legal process to unfold, asserting that her son deserves the same rights as anyone else. The family's plea for patience and justice underscores the emotional turmoil surrounding this tragic case.