## Michael Duarte, “Food with Bear Hands” Influencer, Shot and Killed by Texas Deputy
michael Duarte, a social media personality known for his “Food with Bear Hands” barbecue content, was fatally shot by a Medina County Sheriff’s Deputy in Castroville, Texas, on November 11, 2023, after threatening law enforcement with a knife. The incident occurred as Duarte was attending the Texas Open Fire Meat Up festival in nearby Hondo.
### Incident Details
According to the Medina County Sheriff’s Office, deputies responded to a call regarding a man wielding a knife and making threats. Upon arrival, Duarte was reportedly threatening to “kill everyone.” Deputies repeatedly ordered Duarte to the ground, but he refused to comply. He then allegedly lunged at a deputy with the knife while yelling, “I’m going to kill you.” the deputy discharged her firearm twice, striking duarte. KSAT news reports the Texas Rangers are investigating the shooting, which is standard procedure in officer-involved incidents.First responders provided immediate medical attention and transported Duarte to University Hospital in san Antonio,where he was pronounced dead.
### Who Was Michael Duarte?
Duarte amassed a critically important following – over 2.1 million – across various social media platforms through his “Food with Bear Hands” brand. His content focused on barbecue and outdoor cooking, often featuring him preparing and consuming large quantities of meat with his hands. NBC News details his rise to prominence as a food influencer.
alooma Media Group, Duarte’s talent agency, released a statement describing him as a “devoted husband to his wife Jessica, a loving father to his daughter, brother and a loyal friend to many.” They further highlighted his “warmth, kindness and generosity” and his ability to inspire those around him.
### Location and Background
Castroville, Texas, where the shooting took place, is a small town with a population of 3,201 as of 2024, located in the southwestern part of the Greater San Antonio Area. U.S. Census Bureau data confirms the town’s population. Duarte was in Medina County participating in the Texas Open Fire Meat Up festival, a barbecue-focused event scheduled for Saturday, November 11th.
The shooting occurred shortly after Duarte celebrated his ninth wedding anniversary with his wife, Jessica, and not long after becoming a father.
### Key Takeaways
* Michael Duarte, a popular barbecue influencer, was shot and killed by a Medina County Sheriff’s Deputy.
* The incident occurred after Duarte allegedly threatened people with a knife and lunged at a deputy.
* The Texas Rangers are investigating the shooting.
* Duarte is survived by his wife and daughter.This is a developing story, and further details will emerge as the Texas rangers investigation progresses.