A Texas jury on Tuesday sentenced 19-year-old Karmelo Anthony to 35 years in prison for the murder of 17-year-old Austin Metcalf at a rival track meet last year. 

Anthony was convicted by the jury in Collin County earlier Tuesday after a week-long trial. The jury determined that Anthony murdered Metcalf when he fatally stabbed him at a track meet in Frisco, Texas. He faced up to life in prison. 

The prosecution and defense both waived their right to opening statements in the sentencing phase and prosecutors declined to call any witnesses. The defense only called Anthony's mother Kayla Hayes, according to CBS News. 

"He's my oldest, he's my firstborn," she said. "He will always be my baby. I love him very much."

She also confirmed that her son regretted his actions and the death of Metcalf. 

The jurors reached the verdict two-and-a-half hours after the defense rested its case in the sentencing phase.

"We respect your verdict, and we respect your role," the defense said to the jury in closing arguments. "We as Americans trust in our community. I know it's a heavy burden and I know it's a heavy weight you're carrying ... I can only ask you to consider both sides."

Witnesses alleged during the trial that Anthony and Metcalf had an altercation after the victim told Anthony he was sitting in the wrong area. The defense argued the stabbing was a case of self-defense because the defendant was allegedly protecting himself in the confrontation.

Misty Severi is a news reporter for Just The News. You can follow her on X for more coverage.