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As we beforehand reported, beloved content material creator Michael Duarte died unexpectedly earlier this week.
Higher often called FoodWithBearHands, Duarte created barbecue and grilling movies that had been considered thousands and 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 demise in a confrontation with police.
In response to a press release from the Medina County Sheriff’s Workplace, officers responded to a 911 name on November 8 in Castroville, Texas, concerning a disturbance involving a “male topic with a knife performing erratically.”
Police say Duarte approached officers threateningly and “after a number of verbal instructions got for Duarte to get on the bottom by the deputy, Duarte charged towards the deputy whereas yelling, ‘I’m going to kill you’” (through TMZ).
Duarte had a documented historical past of psychological well being points. Sadly, he died on the scene.
Information of Duarte’s passing got here to us on Tuesday, courtesy of his expertise company, Alooma Media Group.
“It’s with profound disappointment that we share the passing of our valued shopper and pricey buddy, Michael Duarte,” the corporate stated in a press release (through Individuals).
“He was a real & loyal companion, a trusted collaborator, and above all, a outstanding particular person. His ardour, professionalism, and creativity left a long-lasting mark not solely on our crew however on everybody who had the privilege of working with him,” the assertion continued.
“We ask that you just carry Michael’s household up in prayer throughout this extraordinarily tough time. This heartbreak got here with out warning, leaving Jessica to incur the expense of bringing him again residence to California and protecting funeral bills.”
Michael’s family members echoed these remarks in a GoFundMe web page created for the advantage of his spouse and daughter.
The web page describes Mike as a “devoted husband to his spouse Jessica, a loving father to his daughter, brother and a loyal buddy to so many all over the world.”
“His heat, kindness, and generosity had been felt in each interplay, and he had a approach of creating everybody round him really feel valued and impressed,” the submit continued.
“Michael’s passing is an amazing loss to all who knew him. His legacy of integrity, compassion, and dedication will proceed to stay on via 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 once I realized how completely happy creating content material made me. Over time, I started to see it wasn’t only a passion — it may very well be a enterprise, one thing greater 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 demise occurred simply three days after his marriage ceremony anniversary.
Our ideas exit to Michael Duarte’s family members throughout this extremely tough time.
We could have additional updates on this growing story as new info turns into obtainable.
