Support for Carmelo Anthony continues to grow, with online donations surpassing $627,000 following a Texas jury’s guilty verdict of first-degree murder on Tuesday.
Numerous contributors stepped up to support a fundraising campaign after Anthony, 19, was sentenced that afternoon.
With a goal of raising $1.39 million, the campaign continues to attract funds as the trial has raised discussions about racism and prompted protests led by Anthony’s supporters in reaction to the verdict.
Anthony, who is Black, received a 35-year prison sentence for fatally stabbing 17-year-old Austin Metcalf, who is white, during a track meet in Frisco on April 2, 2025.
The funds raised are intended to assist with relocating Anthony’s family, covering living expenses, and implementing necessary safety measures.
“This fundraiser was created to offer extensive support to the Anthony family as they deal with the numerous hurdles related to Carmelo’s situation,” stated Kara Hayes, Anthony’s mother. The fundraising page on GiveSendGo was set up on April 15, 2025, just 13 days after the incident.
“While legal defense is a key component of this journey, we want to emphasize that this fund is not exclusive to legal expenses.”
The largest contribution came from an anonymous donor who gave over $3,000.
This high-profile campaign, with its constant influx of donations, has triggered frustration among many social media users who are opposed to it.
“Carmelo Anthony’s family is still fundraising,” complained one user.
“And people are still contributing.”
The case has been highly contentious, revolving around issues of racial discrimination, with supporters arguing that the ruling was influenced by racism.
Numerous individuals are urging GiveSendGo to halt the campaign.
“@GiveSendGo Carmelo Anthony is currently convicted of first-degree murder. …Are you finally going to cancel his fundraiser?” questioned another user.
