Food Influencer Michael Duarte Shot to Death by Cops

Food influencer Michael Duarte was shot and killed by cops in Texas after he threatened to kill people, according to new details released by police.

A rep for the Medina County Sheriff's Office tells TMZ ... deputies responded to a 911 call November 8 in Castroville, Texas, regarding a disturbance involving a "male subject with a knife acting erratically."

The sheriff's office tells us Duarte approached a responding deputy threateningly -- paramedics were already at the scene -- and "after multiple verbal commands were given for Duarte to get on the ground by the deputy, Duarte charged toward the deputy while yelling, 'I’m going to kill you.'"

That's when the deputy discharged two rounds from her duty weapon, striking Duarte, according to the sheriff's office.

Duarte was given medical aid at the scene and transported to University Hospital in San Antonio, where he was pronounced dead.

His death occurred just days after celebrating his wedding anniversary with his wife.

Duarte's talent agency posted about his death, remembering him as "a devoted husband to his wife Jessica, a loving father to his daughter, brother and a loyal friend to so many around the world."

With over 2 million followers across IG, TikTok, Facebook and YouTube, Duarte was known for posting food content under the Instagram handle @foodwithbearhands ... he shared recipes and videos of himself barbecuing and grilling food.

He's survived by his wife of 9 years and their daughter.