Post by : Rameen Ariff

Michael Duarte, acclaimed as "FoodWithBearHands" in the culinary world, met a tragic end during an encounter with law enforcement in Castroville, Texas, on November 8. The incident culminated when a deputy from Medina County shot Duarte, following his alleged threat with a knife.

Authorities indicated that deputies were dispatched following an emergency call about a “male subject with a knife acting erratically.” Upon arrival, Duarte reportedly disregarded several commands to drop the knife and lie down, instead allegedly advancing towards the officer, shouting, "I'm going to kill you," which led the deputy to fire two shots.

Despite immediate medical assistance and being rushed to University Hospital in San Antonio, Duarte was pronounced dead. The Medina County Sheriff’s Office noted that he had displayed erratic behavior that posed a significant risk to the responding Fire and EMS teams.

A California native, Duarte achieved fame on social media due to his engaging barbecue and grilling content. His untimely death has resonated deeply within his fanbase and the culinary sector. Reports suggest he was experiencing a mental health crisis during the events leading to the incident.

Duarte’s talent agency, Alooma Media Group, expressed profound grief over his loss, describing him as a dedicated husband, affectionate father, and steadfast friend. They stated, “Michael was never just a client to us; he was a genuine partner, a reliable collaborator, and an extraordinary individual. His commitment, creativity, and passion will be remembered by all fortunate enough to work alongside him.”

A GoFundMe campaign has been initiated to assist Duarte’s family with funeral expenses and to help them return to California. The funds will support his wife, Jessica, and their six-year-old daughter, Oakley, during this challenging period.

Michael Duarte's unexpected passing underscores the critical need for mental health awareness and highlights the unpredictable nature of crisis situations in interactions with law enforcement.

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