Table of Contents
Following the tragic death of popular food influencer Michael Duarte, his wife, Jessica Duarte, has turned to social media to express her grief and honor her husband’s legacy. This emotional tribute comes as she confronts what she describes as “false narratives” surrounding the circumstances of Michael’s death during a family trip to Texas.
Michael Duarte, known for his vibrant personality and engaging cooking videos under the handle FoodWithBearHands, was shot by a sheriff’s deputy after an altercation escalated, leaving his family and followers in shock.
Understanding the incident
On the morning of November 8, a 911 call was made regarding a man with a knife who was reportedly acting erratically. When law enforcement arrived at the scene in Castroville, Texas, they found Duarte exhibiting alarming behavior and making threats. According to the Medina County Sheriff’s Office, he not only threatened nearby individuals but also attempted to assault emergency responders.
Details of the confrontation
As officers confronted him, they instructed Duarte to drop his weapon. However, he allegedly refused to comply and charged toward a deputy while shouting threats. In response to the perceived danger, the deputy fired their weapon, striking Duarte. He was subsequently transported to a hospital in San Antonio, where he was pronounced dead.
A widow’s tribute
In the days following her husband’s death, Jessica utilized Duarte’s Instagram account to convey her sorrow. She expressed her struggle to cope with the loss and her determination to honor Michael’s memory by sharing stories from his life. “I want to keep his legacy alive, not just for him but for our family as well,” she wrote. Jessica emphasized Michael’s profound impact on many lives and her commitment to continuing his work.
Facing the media coverage
Jessica also addressed the media’s portrayal of the tragic event, which she described as misrepresentative of her husband’s true character. “The narratives being circulated are painful and disrespectful to the memory of a wonderful man,” she stated. She urged both the press and the public to refrain from sharing unverified information until an official investigation is concluded.
In her heartfelt message, she reaffirmed her pride in being Michael’s wife, stating, “I will carry that title with honor for the rest of my life. Until we meet again, Daddy.” Her words reflect not only her sorrow but also her hope for healing amidst the chaos of grief.
Michael’s legacy and impact
Michael was known for his dynamic presence on social media, amassing over 2 million followers who enjoyed his unique barbecue recipes and charismatic approach to cooking. His journey to becoming an influencer was fraught with challenges; he had previously spoken about his struggles with mental health, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic, which forced him into psychiatric care.
Reflecting on his past, Michael once shared, “The breakdown I experienced stemmed from feelings of failure. The lockdown took a significant toll on my self-esteem.” Following his recovery, he found solace and purpose in creating cooking videos, utilizing humor and creativity to connect with his audience.
As a devoted husband and father, Michael leaves behind a loving family, including his wife Jessica and their six-year-old daughter, Oakley. His untimely death not only leaves a void in their lives but also in the hearts of those who admired him.
Michael Duarte, known for his vibrant personality and engaging cooking videos under the handle FoodWithBearHands, was shot by a sheriff’s deputy after an altercation escalated, leaving his family and followers in shock.0