Food Influencer ‘FoodWithBearHands’ Dies in Tragic Family Travel Accident
Michael Duarte, the popular food influencer known as FoodWithBearHands, tragically lost his life in a family travel accident in Texas. His death has shocked fans and followers across multiple social media platforms.
Details of the Incident
Duarte passed away on November 8, 2023, while traveling with his wife, Jessica, and their six-year-old daughter, Oakley. The news was confirmed by his talent agency, Alooma Media Group, on November 9. They expressed profound sadness and paid tribute to Duarte, noting his impact through passion and creativity.
Community Support
- A GoFundMe page has been established to support Duarte’s family during this difficult time.
- The campaign emphasizes the need for prayers to help Jessica return his remains to California and cover funeral costs.
A Legacy of Culinary Art
Known for his barbecue and grilled recipes, Duarte garnered a following of over two million on platforms like TikTok, Instagram, YouTube, and Facebook. His cooking journey began at the age of 14 in a small Mexican restaurant run by his uncle in Calipatria, California, near the U.S.–Mexico border.
Personal Struggles and Triumphs
Before his rise as a food creator, Duarte stepped away from the restaurant industry due to mental health challenges. During this period, he entered rehab and found joy in creating food videos, eventually transforming his passion into a career.
Family First
Duarte often included his daughter, Oakley, in his videos, embodying his mission to share food with those in need. His commitment to family and community made him a beloved figure within the culinary space.
As fans mourn the loss of Michael Duarte, his influence and messages of compassion and integrity will continue to resonate within the food community and beyond.
