
A tragic incident in Texas has led to widespread confusion online due to one unusual coincidence: the suspect shares a name with an NBA legend. But let’s be clear—NBA Hall of Famer Carmelo Anthony was not involved in the stabbing that occurred at a high school track meet this month.
Teen Suspect Shares Name with NBA Icon
Authorities in Fort Worth, Texas, confirmed that 17-year-old Karmelo Anthony has been charged with first-degree murder following the fatal stabbing of a fellow student during a crowded track meet at Crowley High School on May 23. The victim, 16-year-old Keylan Johnson, was attacked during the event and later died from his injuries. Another student sustained non-life-threatening wounds.
Witnesses say the incident unfolded in front of a large crowd, and police believe it stemmed from an ongoing dispute between the teens. Karmelo Anthony, the suspect, was later arrested and charged as an adult.
Rumors Swirl, Confusion Grows
The name “Karmelo Anthony” quickly gained traction on social media—not for the tragedy, but because of its striking similarity to Carmelo Anthony, the former NBA superstar known for his prolific scoring, Olympic gold medals, and legendary college career at Syracuse.
False rumors and misleading headlines caused some to briefly panic, thinking the 10-time All-Star had been involved in the incident. He was not. Carmelo Anthony is 40 years old, retired from professional basketball, and currently focused on supporting his son Kiyan’s emerging basketball career.
Who Is Carmelo Anthony?
For clarity, Carmelo Anthony is a decorated basketball player who was inducted into the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame in 2024. He played 19 seasons in the NBA, most notably with the Denver Nuggets and New York Knicks, and is one of the top 10 scorers in league history.

His son, Kiyan Anthony, recently announced he will wear his father’s iconic No. 7 jersey when he plays for Syracuse—where Carmelo led the Orange to a national championship in 2003.
A Tragic Crime, Not a Celebrity Scandal
The Fort Worth school district and local police are focused on the real tragedy: the loss of a young life in a senseless act of violence. The victim’s family and the community are grieving, and the investigation into what led to the fatal stabbing is ongoing.
As the case proceeds, it’s important to distinguish fact from fiction—and to respect the seriousness of the situation rather than fueling misinformation based on a coincidental name.