The wife of food creator Michael Duarte has spoken publicly for the first time since his death in Texas. Jess Duarte shared a message acknowledging the support the family has received and addressing the misinformation that has begun circulating online. Her statement was released as the investigation into the incident remains active.
Jess opened her message by saying that deciding how to respond after her husband’s death has been difficult. She explained that the emotions of the past several days have been overwhelming for the family, but the support from viewers, friends, and members of the cooking and barbecue community has brought them some strength. Jess said she appreciated the people who reached out and wanted to express her gratitude.
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She wrote that she felt it was important to share something publicly, even though doing so was not easy. According to Jess, the only thing that felt appropriate was to speak about who Michael was and what he meant to the family and to many people who followed his work. She said, “I am trying to take steps that feel right, and sharing a few words about him is one of them.”
Jess also described Michael as a husband and father above anything else seen online. While many people knew him through his cooking content, she said he played an even bigger role at home. She noted that the public usually saw the food-related side of him, but for the family he was involved in daily life and was consistently present for them.
She mentioned that the family is now focusing on supporting their young daughter and trying to manage everything that comes with the loss. Jess said they are taking things day by day and are relying on a close circle of support to help them through this period.
A main point in her message concerned the online speculation surrounding Michael’s death. Since the story became public, several posts and claims have circulated that do not match information released by officials. Jess said that reading false or misleading statements has been difficult for the family, especially during an already painful time. She said, “There are things being shared that are not true. We are asking people not to repeat anything that has not been confirmed.”
She urged the public to avoid sharing unverified information and to allow the investigation to continue without added confusion. Jess explained that spreading inaccurate claims does not help and increases stress for the family as they wait for official answers.
Authorities previously released a basic outline of the incident. Deputies responded to a 911 call reporting a man with a knife who was behaving erratically. Officials said that during the encounter, the man confronted a deputy and allegedly moved toward her while shouting threats. The deputy fired two shots, and Michael was taken to a hospital where he was later pronounced dead. The investigation is ongoing, and officials have not released additional conclusions.
Jess did not comment on the details of the event, saying only that the case is still under review. She clarified that the family will not discuss specifics until authorities complete their investigation. Her focus remained on thanking supporters and addressing incorrect information.
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In the days after the news was reported, many people from the food, grilling, and barbecue community shared messages remembering Michael. Several creators posted comments about how his content inspired them or encouraged them to try new cooking techniques. Others mentioned positive interactions they had with him online. His videos, which often covered grilling and backyard cooking, attracted a steady following and helped him build a recognizable presence in the food space.
Jess said that the family has seen many of these posts and that the messages have offered some comfort. She said, “It means a lot to read how much people appreciated him.” She added that the support from fans and colleagues has reminded them of the impact he had.
She also mentioned that the family is preparing memorial arrangements and will share more details when they are ready. Jess asked for continued privacy as they work through the process of planning and grieving.
Before closing her message, Jess included a personal note to her husband. She wrote that she is proud to have been his wife and that she will always carry that identity with respect. She said, “You gave us so much, and we will always remember you.” She added that their daughter will grow up knowing who he was and how many people he reached.
Jess’s statement provided the family’s perspective at a time when public discussion of the incident has been active. Her comments offered clarity, thanked supporters for their messages, and urged the public not to spread unverified information while the investigation continues.