Castroville, Texas, November 21, 2025
The Medina County Sheriff’s Office is requesting the Texas Attorney General block the release of bodycam footage related to the fatal shooting of food influencer Michael Duarte. The incident, which occurred in Castroville, involved Duarte allegedly threatening a deputy with a knife, leading to the shooting. Duarte’s death has sparked significant community interest and raised discussions on mental health and public safety. His family, especially his wife, has urged the public to avoid sharing unverified information while the investigation continues.
Medina County, Texas – Sheriff’s Office Seeks to Block Release of Bodycam Footage in Fatal Shooting of Food Influencer
Medina County Sheriff’s Office has requested the Texas Attorney General to prevent the release of body camera footage depicting the fatal shooting of food influencer Michael Duarte.
On November 8, 2025, deputies responded to a 911 call in Castroville, Texas, reporting a man acting erratically with a knife. Authorities allege that Duarte threatened and charged at a responding deputy, leading to the deputy firing two shots that struck Duarte. He was transported to a hospital in San Antonio, where he was pronounced dead. The incident is under investigation by the Texas Rangers.
Duarte, 39, was known online as “FoodWithBearHands,” amassing a following of over 2 million across platforms like Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and YouTube. He was recognized for sharing cooking videos and grilling recipes, often featuring his 6-year-old daughter.
Following the incident, Duarte’s wife, Jessica, expressed her grief and emphasized the importance of preserving his legacy. She urged the public to refrain from sharing unverified information during the ongoing investigation.
The Medina County Sheriff’s Office has not released the name of the deputy involved. The Texas Department of Public Safety is leading the investigation into the circumstances surrounding Duarte’s death.
Incident Overview
The tragic event surrounding Michael Duarte’s death has drawn significant attention, particularly within the local community and beyond. As an influential figure in the food community, Duarte’s passing has raised questions about mental health challenges and public safety, illustrating the complexities surrounding law enforcement’s response to individuals in distress.
The Role of the Sheriff’s Office
Efforts by the Medina County Sheriff’s Office to block the release of bodycam footage highlight a priority for maintaining the integrity of ongoing investigations. By seeking to limit public access to such footage, the department aims to ensure a thorough and fair review of the incident, allowing the Texas Rangers to carry out their investigation without external pressures.
Duarte’s Legacy
As an online food influencer, Michael Duarte connected with over 2 million followers through engaging and heartfelt cooking content. His presence on various social media platforms exemplifies the innovative entrepreneurial spirit found in Texas, demonstrating how individuals can build a brand and community around personal passions. This incident underscores the importance of supporting mental health initiatives while preserving the memory of those who contribute positively to society.
Community Response
Jessica Duarte’s plea for compassion and understanding in the aftermath of this tragedy reflects the strong ties that community members have to one another. Encouraging the public to refrain from spreading unverified information showcases a commitment to empathy during difficult times. This illustrates the potential for community resilience when involved citizens come together publicly to foster understanding and healing.
Conclusion
As the investigation continues into the circumstances surrounding Michael Duarte’s death, it serves as a reminder of the complexities involved in public safety and personal well-being. The Medina County Sheriff’s Office’s efforts to manage the flow of information highlight the delicate balance between transparency and the need for due process in law enforcement. Supporting local businesses, mental health initiatives, and fostering community understanding is essential as San Antonio and its surrounding areas navigate this challenging situation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What led to the fatal shooting of Michael Duarte?
On November 8, 2025, deputies responded to a 911 call in Castroville, Texas, reporting a man acting erratically with a knife. Authorities allege that Duarte threatened and charged at a responding deputy, leading to the deputy firing two shots that struck Duarte. He was transported to a hospital in San Antonio, where he was pronounced dead. The incident is under investigation by the Texas Rangers.
Who was Michael Duarte?
Duarte, 39, was known online as “FoodWithBearHands,” amassing a following of over 2 million across platforms like Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and YouTube. He was recognized for sharing cooking videos and grilling recipes, often featuring his 6-year-old daughter.
What is the current status of the investigation?
The Medina County Sheriff’s Office has not released the name of the deputy involved. The Texas Department of Public Safety is leading the investigation into the circumstances surrounding Duarte’s death.
What has been the response from Duarte’s family?
Following the incident, Duarte’s wife, Jessica, expressed her grief and emphasized the importance of preserving his legacy. She urged the public to refrain from sharing unverified information during the ongoing investigation.
Key Features of the Incident
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Incident Date | November 8, 2025 |
| Location | Castroville, Texas |
| Victim | Michael Duarte, 39, known as “FoodWithBearHands” |
| Deputy Involved | Not yet identified |
| Investigation | Led by the Texas Rangers |
| Family’s Response | Wife urges public to avoid sharing unverified information |
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