Michael Duarte, a 36-year-old food influencer known for his Instagram account “foodwithbearhands,” was fatally shot by Texas police last month following an alleged erratic outburst. Prior to his death, Duarte had publicly shared his struggles with mental health and his journey through rehabilitation.
In a post on October 25, two weeks before his death, Duarte candidly discussed his mental health crisis that led him to seek help. He attributed his breakdown to the pressures of the Covid-19 lockdown, which he said had a significant impact on his self-confidence.
Duarte also shared his personal story of growing up with a single mother who battled breast cancer for many years. He credited her with teaching him valuable life lessons and supporting him in his endeavors. After her death when he was 21, Duarte found solace in cooking, which later became a significant part of his recovery process.
Despite his past struggles, Duarte had managed to build a successful career as a food influencer. His Instagram account, where he shared his unique and mouthwatering barbecue recipes, had amassed over a million followers. His posts often showcased his vibrant personality and sense of humor.
Duarte’s personal life also seemed to be on an upward trajectory. He had recently celebrated his ninth wedding anniversary in early November. He and his wife frequently shared heartwarming photos of their young daughter and pet dog on social media.
However, tragedy struck just days after their anniversary. While the couple was driving through west Texas, Duarte was fatally shot by a police officer responding to a 911 call about a man with a knife behaving erratically. According to police reports, Duarte was threatening to harm others and attempted to assault emergency personnel on the scene. His behavior escalated, leading the police to open fire.
Duarte’s wife, Jessica, has since expressed her gratitude for the support they have received from his followers. She shared on social media that she is still grappling with his loss but is beginning to see his larger purpose and the mysterious ways in which life works.