THE wife of food influencer Michael Duarte has broken her silence following his death.
Duarte, known as Food With Bear Hands, was shot dead by cops after allegedly waving a knife erratically.
Duarte’s wife, Jess, has spoken out for the first time and told TMZ she’s “struggled” what to do.
She paid a glowing tribute to him on social media.
“I plan to keep his legacy going not only for him, but his family,” she wrote on Instagram.
“He gave everyone every bit of him so it’s my turn to give it back.
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“I’m not quite sure what that looks like yet but hopefully he will lead me on that path.”
Jess claimed she could feel her late husband “moving mountains” as she acknowledged his legion of fans.
“A big thank you to my tribe & Mike’s BBQ community for making me feel like I have an army behind me,” she wrote.
“I’m still struggling with the fact that he is no longer with us but l’m starting to see his purpose was SO much bigger.
“I’m starting to see God work in mysterious ways that l’ve never experienced before and hoping that will bring our family some peace.”
She revealed she’s proud to be Duarte’s wife.
“I will carry that title with honor for the rest of my life. See you on the other side, Daddy,” Jess said as she rounded off the post.
Duarte died just days after the couple celebrated their nine year wedding anniversary.
Texas cops encountered him waving a knife before ordering him to drop it.
Medina County sheriffs claimed the influencer was making threats.
“Duarte charged toward the Deputy while yelling, ‘I’m going to kill you,” they claimed.
Duarte. a dad of one, was treated at the scene then rushed to San Antonio hospital where he tragically died.
A GoFundMe was created following his death and more than $80,000 has been raised.
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