The online culinary world is mourning the sudden death of California-based food creator Michael Duarte, known to millions of followers as FoodWithBearHands. He was 36. News of his passing came after a tragic incident in Texas on November 8, while he was travelling with family.
A Career Built on Fire, Smoke & Sharing
Born and raised in Calipatria, California near the U.S.–Mexico border, Duarte discovered his love for cooking at a young age while helping in his uncle’s Mexican restaurant. He later worked in San Diego restaurants, before the COVID-19 pandemic pivoted his path toward social media.
Under the moniker FoodWithBearHands, he amassed a combined social-media following of over two million across Instagram, TikTok, Facebook and YouTube. His content featured bold BBQ and grilling recipes, candid moments with family, and a steady message: “my purpose is to share to the world food to people who need it the most.”
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The Fatal Incident in Texas
On November 8, 2025, deputies from the Medina County Sheriff’s Office in Texas responded to a 911-call disturbance in the town of Castroville, Texas involving a male subject reportedly acting erratically with a knife. According to police statement, Duarte was identified as the subject. After multiple verbal commands to drop the weapon, he “charged toward the deputy while yelling, ‘I’m going to kill you,’” prompting a deputy to fire two rounds. Duarte was struck, transported to a hospital in San Antonio and later pronounced deceased.
Though early announcements described the incident as a “horrible accident,” authorities subsequently clarified the involvement of law-enforcement. The precise circumstances remain under review.
Personal Life and Legacy
Just three days earlier, Duarte and his wife, Jessica, had celebrated their ninth wedding anniversary. The couple leaves behind their six-year-old daughter, Oakley.
His talent agency, Alooma Media Group, issued a tribute calling him “a true & loyal partner, a trusted collaborator, and above all, a remarkable person. His passion, professionalism and creativity left a lasting mark…”
A GoFundMe campaign has been launched by friends and family to support funeral arrangements and the transportation of Duarte’s remains back to California, as well as to support his wife and daughter during this difficult time.
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Why His Passing Matters
- Duarte’s approach to cooking—grilling for community, sharing beyond simply recipes—helped transform him into more than an influencer; he became a figure in the online food-space that emphasized generosity and connection.
- His death highlights mental-health issues faced by content creators during and after the pandemic, as Duarte himself spoke openly about a breakdown he suffered during COVID-19 and a subsequent stay in rehab.
- It also raises questions around police responses to crisis incidents, especially those involving individuals in apparent mental-health distress.
What Comes Next
Authorities say the investigation is ongoing and no further details have yet been published on the deputy’s identity, body-camera footage or internal department review. Duarte’s community, fans and fellow creators are holding tributes to honour his work and remember his spirit of kindness and food-sharing.
FAQ
Who was Michael Duarte?
Michael Duarte was a California-based food influencer who created BBQ and grilling videos under the online name “FoodWithBearHands.” He built a social-media following of over two million by focusing on cooking, community and family.
How did Michael Duarte die?
On November 8, 2025, while travelling in Texas with his family, Duarte was involved in an incident with law-enforcement in Medina County. Deputies say he was acting erratically with a knife, refused to comply with commands and charged an officer. The deputy fired two shots; Duarte was hospitalised and later pronounced dead. (The Independent)
Where did the incident take place?
The incident occurred in Castroville, Texas, in Medina County.
How old was Duarte and did he have family?
He was 36 years old at the time of his death. He is survived by his wife, Jessica, and their daughter, Oakley, aged six.
What kind of content did he make?
Duarte produced cooking and grilling videos, often focusing on barbeque, community meals and sharing food with those in need. His Instagram bio states: “my purpose is to share to the world food to people who need it the most.”
What is the current status of the investigation?
At this stage, authorities have released limited details. No full public report or completed review has been made available. Duarte’s death is described by his family and campaign as a “horrible accident,” though law-enforcement statements indicate a shooting incident.
How are people responding?
Tributes have poured in from fans, fellow creators and the food-community. His agency praised his warmth and creativity. A fundraising campaign has been established to support his family and honour his legacy.
Michael Duarte’s passing leaves a profound void in the food-creator community. His journey—from a small-town cook to a social-media presence built on empathy and flavour—was remarkable. His legacy will live on through the countless people he inspired to light up their grills, share a meal and connect beyond the screen.