Michael Duarte, a well-known food influencer recognized for his engaging recipe and barbecue videos, has died at the age of 39 in Texas on November 8. His passing was confirmed by Alooma Media Group, the agency that represented him, in an Instagram post published on November 9, reports Baltimore Chronicle with reference to USA TODAY.
Alooma also shared a GoFundMe campaign revealing that Duarte’s death was the result of a “horrible accident” that occurred while he was traveling in Texas. However, later information provided by the Medina County Sheriff’s Office indicated that the incident was connected to a police response in Castroville.
According to Sheriff Randy Brown, the office received a 911 call around 11:28 a.m. on November 8 about “a disturbance involving a male subject with a knife acting erratically.” When deputies arrived, they encountered Duarte, who, according to the report, was “making threats to kill everyone” and “attempting to assault Fire and EMS personnel.” Despite multiple verbal commands to lie on the ground, Duarte allegedly charged toward the deputy while shouting, “I’m going to kill you.”
The sheriff’s statement said the deputy fired her weapon twice, hitting Duarte. He was taken to a hospital in San Antonio, where he was later pronounced dead. The Texas Rangers have since launched an investigation into the shooting.
In a heartfelt statement posted by Alooma Media Group, the agency expressed its grief over the loss of Duarte, describing him as both a cherished client and a close friend. The post included a photograph of Duarte alongside his wife Jessica and their 6-year-old daughter Oakley. Alooma emphasized that Duarte was not only a talented creator but also “a true and loyal partner, a trusted collaborator, and above all, a remarkable person.”
The statement continued, noting Duarte’s deep devotion to his family and his warmth and generosity toward those who knew him. “Michael’s passion, professionalism, and creativity left a lasting mark not only on our team but on everyone who had the privilege of working with him,” Alooma wrote.
Duarte, who went by the handle @foodwithbearhands on social media, built a large following by sharing visually captivating food content—particularly videos featuring sizzling meat, inventive recipes, and unexpected flavor pairings. His culinary journey began as a teenager working in his uncle’s restaurant in California. After facing personal struggles and a mental health crisis during the pandemic, Duarte found a renewed sense of purpose through food creation and storytelling.
“Michael’s passing is a tremendous loss to all who knew him,” Alooma concluded. “His legacy of compassion, dedication, and creativity will continue to inspire those whose lives he touched. Our hearts go out to Jessica, their daughter, and everyone who is mourning this profound loss.”
A GoFundMe page has been created to help Duarte’s family with funeral expenses and transportation costs to bring him home to California. The campaign emphasizes that his death “came without warning,” leaving his wife to manage significant financial burdens. “Your support,” the statement reads, “will bring comfort, stability, and a reminder that Jessica and Oakley are not carrying this weight alone.”
Earlier we wrote that David Beckham Knighted by King Charles III for Contributions to Football and Charity.
