Influencer Michael Duarte Shot Dead by Texas Police: New Details Emerge Amidst Family Grief & Ongoing Investigation

Popular California-based food influencer Michael Duarte, widely recognized online as FoodWithBearHands, met a tragic end on November 8, 2025, after being shot by law enforcement in Castroville, Texas. The incident unfolded during a disturbance call, and the Medina County Sheriff’s Office has now released new information, offering clarity on the circumstances surrounding his death, which has left his family in profound heartbreak.

The Fatal Encounter in Castroville

Official reports detail that deputies responded to a 911 call reporting a man behaving erratically and armed with a knife. During the confrontation, a female deputy discharged her duty weapon twice, striking Duarte. Despite immediate efforts to transport him to a hospital for medical attention, Duarte ultimately succumbed to his injuries.

Family Grieves Amidst Evolving Narrative

Prior to these official disclosures, a GoFundMe campaign, initiated by his wife, Jessica Duarte, had indicated that Michael died in a "horrible accident" while traveling in Texas. The ongoing fundraising effort aims to cover the significant costs of repatriating his remains to California and funding his funeral. The campaign page earnestly requests prayers and support for Michael’s family during this exceptionally challenging period.

Michael Duarte's Legacy: Food, Family, and Resilience

Michael Duarte had cultivated an impressive online following, exceeding two million across prominent platforms such as Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and YouTube. He garnered immense popularity for his straightforward, enjoyable cooking and BBQ videos. His Instagram bio eloquently summarized his life's mission: “My purpose is to share to the world food to people who need it the most.”

Duarte's culinary journey began in Calipatria, California, near the U.S.–Mexico border, where he spent his formative years. At the age of 14, he started working in his uncle’s small Mexican restaurant, an experience that ignited his passion for cooking. He later refined his skills in various esteemed restaurants throughout San Diego.

During the challenging period of the COVID-19 pandemic, Michael openly shared his personal struggles, revealing on Instagram that he endured a "mental health crisis" and subsequently sought rehabilitation. Following his recovery, he discovered renewed purpose and immense joy in creating cooking content, frequently collaborating with his daughter. He once penned, “My first video was with my daughter. That’s when I realized how happy creating content made me.”

Tributes and Ongoing Investigation

Alooma Media Group, Duarte's talent agency, officially confirmed his passing on November 9, expressing deep sorrow for the loss of a "valued client and dear friend." The agency's statement lauded his dedication as a loving husband to Jessica, a devoted father to his daughter, and a loyal friend to many, adding that his “warmth, kindness, and generosity were felt in every interaction.”

The Medina County Sheriff’s Office has confirmed that the investigation into the fatal incident remains active and ongoing. The public can anticipate further details to be released as the inquiry progresses.