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As we beforehand reported, beloved content material creator Michael Duarte died unexpectedly earlier this week.
Higher referred to as FoodWithBearHands, Duarte created barbecue and grilling movies that had been seen hundreds of thousands of occasions.
At first, particulars had been nonetheless scarce, and Duarte’s family members solely confirmed that he handed away following a “horrible incident” that occurred whereas touring along with his household in Texas.
We now know that he was shot to dying in a confrontation with police.
Meals influencer Michael Duarte has handed away in a tragic accident. (YouTube)
In line with a press release from the Medina County Sheriff’s Workplace, officers responded to a 911 name on November 8 in Castroville, Texas, relating to a disturbance involving a “male subject with a knife acting erratically.”
Police say Duarte approached officers threateningly and “after multiple verbal commands were given for Duarte to get on the ground by the deputy, Duarte charged toward the deputy while yelling, ‘I’m going to kill you’” (by way of TMZ).
Duarte had a documented historical past of psychological well being points. Sadly, he died on the scene.
“It is with profound sadness that we share the passing of our valued client and dear friend, Michael Duarte,” the corporate mentioned in a press release (by way of Folks).
“He was a true & loyal partner, a trusted collaborator, and above all, a remarkable person. His passion, professionalism, and creativity left a lasting mark not only on our team but on everyone who had the privilege of working with him,” the assertion continued.
Meals influencer Michael Duarte has handed away in a tragic accident. (YouTube)
“We ask that you lift Michael’s family up in prayer during this extremely difficult time. This heartbreak came without warning, leaving Jessica to incur the expense of bringing him back home to California and covering funeral expenses.”
Michael’s family members echoed these remarks in a GoFundMe web page created for the good thing about his spouse and daughter.
The web page describes Mike as a “devoted husband to his wife Jessica, a loving father to his daughter, brother and a loyal friend to so many around the world.”
“His warmth, kindness, and generosity were felt in every interaction, and he had a way of making everyone around him feel valued and inspired,” the submit continued.
“Michael’s passing is a tremendous loss to all who knew him. His legacy of integrity, compassion, and dedication will continue to live on through the lives he touched.”
Duarte began making food-related movies after checking into rehab for points associated to his psychological well being throughout the Covid pandemic.
“My first one was with my daughter,” he wrote in a submit explaining his background. “That’s when I realized how happy creating content made me. Over time, I began to see it wasn’t just a hobby — it could be a business, something bigger than myself.”
Within the years since, his barbecue and grilling content material made him one of many web’s hottest meals influencers.
Michael is survived by his spouse of 9 years, Jessica, and their six-year-old daughter, Oakley.
The GoFundMe web page notes that his dying occurred simply three days after his marriage ceremony anniversary.
Our ideas exit to Michael Duarte’s family members throughout this extremely troublesome time.
We may have additional updates on this growing story as new info turns into accessible.
