Michael Duarte’s Wife Speaks Out After Food Influencer’s Death

UPDATE: Michael Duarte’s wife, Jess, has publicly addressed the tragic death of the popular food influencer for the first time, sharing an emotional tribute while refuting what she calls damaging misinformation. In a heartfelt statement to TMZ, Jess expressed her struggle since his passing, stating, “I’ve struggled with what to do since his passing, so I’m doing what feels right … sharing his stories.”

Jess emphasized the overwhelming support from fans and the BBQ community, describing it as a lifeline during this difficult time. “I’m moved by how many people Mike inspired and hope to carry his legacy forward,” she said, reflecting on how her husband’s impact was “so much bigger” than she initially understood.

The Duarte family is currently making memorial arrangements, and Jess assures the public that details will be shared soon. However, she has urged the media and public to refrain from spreading unverified information, adding, “The false narratives are disheartening and disrespectful to the legacy of a wonderful man.”

On the night of his death, Texas deputies responded to a 911 call about a man acting erratically with a knife. The sheriff’s office reported that Michael confronted a deputy and allegedly charged at her, shouting, “I’m going to kill you,” which prompted the deputy to fire two rounds. He was taken to a hospital but was pronounced dead shortly thereafter.

As Jess continues to grapple with the loss, she concluded her emotional statement with a poignant message: “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.” Michael is survived by Jess, his wife of nine years, and their young daughter.

The ongoing investigation into the circumstances surrounding his death emphasizes the need for accurate reporting as the family seeks to honor Michael’s memory while navigating this heartbreaking chapter. Jess’s call for respect and clarity resonates deeply as the community mourns the loss of a beloved figure.