Featured Image Credit: Instagram/Michael Duarte
Topics: Texas, US News, Social Media, Police
Callum Jones
Topics: Texas, US News, Social Media, Police
The wife of influencer Michael Duarte has spoken out after he was shot and killed by police while traveling with his family.
Duarte, known more fondly for his cooking content under the social media handle, FoodWithBearHands, was fatally shot by cops in Castroville, Texas, on Saturday (November 8).
Police reportedly responded to a 911 call over a disturbance involving a man 'with a knife acting erratically', according to a spokesperson for the Medina County Sheriff's Office, according to TMZ.
The force further confirmed that a deputy then discharged two rounds from her duty weapon, which fatally struck Duarte after he allegedly charged at her with a knife.
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The Californian influencer was later pronounced dead at a nearby hospital, with his passing first being announced by his agency, which wrote on Instagram that it was 'with profound sadness that we share the passing of our valued client and dear friend, Michael Duarte'.
The social media star is survived by his wife, Jessica, and their six-year-old daughter.
Following the incident, Duarte's family said their 'loving husband, father, brother and great friend to many' died 'in a horrible accident'.
"Michael's death occurred just 3 short days after he and his wife celebrated their 9 year wedding anniversary," a GoFundMe reads.
Now, Duarte's wife, Jessica, has spoken out by posting an emotional tribute to her husband on Instagram.
"I feel so touched and proud to know so many people that he has inspired over his time here on earth. I plan to keep his legacy going not only for him but his family," she began.
"He gave everyone every bit of him so it’s my turn to give it back. I’m not quite sure what that looks like yet but hopefully he will lead me on that path," the post read.
She also thanked people who have reached out to her, sharing that "the outpouring love has really given [her] strength."
Jessica continued: "I’m still struggling with the fact that he is no longer with us, but l’m starting to see his purpose was SO much bigger. I’m starting to see God work in mysterious ways that l’ve never experienced before and hoping that will bring our family some peace.
"Mike, I’m proud to be your wife and I will carry that title with honor for the rest of my life. See you on the other side, Daddy."
She added that funeral arrangements were underway and that an investigation into her husband's death is ongoing.
The GoFundMe, which has over $80,000 raised at the time of writing, added: "This heartbreak came without warning, leaving Jessica to incur the expense of bringing him back home to California and covering funeral expenses."
It also said that funeral plans were 'undecided at this time', but that an update would be given at a later date.