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He may have been the “aggressor”. I didn’t speak to that allegation. The fact remains Metcalf told him to get out of the tent and then either shoved him, pushed him, or in someway hit him. That feels like an act of aggression to me. But, perhaps it was merely a love pat. Anthony was in the tent because it was storming outside and he was seeking shelter. In that situation, I don’t see where it would hurt anyone to offer him shelter. He was not “banned” from sporting events. In fact he was scheduled for 2 events that day.

Anthony was a student athlete at his school and carried a 3.7 GPA. That doesn’t fit the criteria of a degenerate, trouble making, “punk”. I’m sure in the moment he wasn’t thinking about the consequences. He felt threatened and reacted to what he perceived as threats. No, he should not have had a weapon but I bet in these days and times many young people have hidden weapons. It doesn’t make his actions any less deplorable.

He didn’t try to deny what he had done. He owned it and openly confessed the moment he was caught. His concern at the time was for Metcalf. Now I’m sure anyone can twist his actions and claim it was all for show but I don’t believe it was. He was provoked and afraid.

I’m not an advocate for solving your issues with violence but I do understand fear. Metcalf had a good 40 pounds on him. Anthony was a lightweight 160 pounder. Metcalf was a linebacker which means he was strong. Anthony knew that. Regardless of the perceived rules on the tents, what exactly is the harm in letting another person have a bit of space and comfort in the middle of a thunderstorm? Anthony’s team for whatever reason, failed to bring a tent that day.

The whole situation is horrible! Where I see a frightened young man, you see a “punk”. Someone you feel unworthy of compassion. There’s just far too much hatred among young people. I certainly can’t fix it. I don’t condone murder. However, I also don’t condone pure hatred towards another especially when your life is not affected one tiny bit by their actions.