🔗 Share this article Vladimir Kramnik Rejects Wrongdoing in Passing of US Chess Star Daniel Naroditsky The former world champion has broken his silence after the tragic passing of US chess star Daniel Naroditsky, calling the 29-year-old's demise as a heartbreaking event while accusing critics for mounting what he termed an "deeply cynical and illegal campaign of harassment" against him and his family. Former Champion's Response The 50-year-old ex-champion, who has faced widespread condemnation for alleging Naroditsky of digital foul play lacking proof, expressed condolences but rejected any individual targeting. "Regardless of our differences, I was the only person in the chess community who, observing through footage Daniel's obvious health issues a day before his death, publicly called for him to get assistance," Kramnik stated. "The ensuing efforts, right after his passing, to directly link this tragic event to my name … cross all boundaries of basic human morality." Kramnik said his earlier requests for examination of Naroditsky's online play had been ignored "despite a significant amount of evidence", and claimed he would provide material to "appropriate officials". He mentioned his lawyers were preparing civil and criminal suits over "unfounded claims" that have resulted in dangers against him and his family. Police Findings The demise of the grandmaster may have been the consequence of substance overuse and is being examined as a potential self-harm case, according to a police report released Thursday. A report from the Charlotte-Mecklenburg police department indicates Naroditsky was found dead Sunday evening and classifies the case as a "Death/suicide/overdose/Sudden/Natural Death Investigation." "On Sunday October 19th at around 7:11 PM, officers responded to an emergency medical request in the area of 9000 Colin Crossing," the document states. "When they reached the scene, an unconscious individual was found and later pronounced deceased by a medical professional." Community Reaction Anger over Kramnik's behavior has dominated the chess world. Hikaru Nakamura called his behavior "disgusting", while reigning champion Carlsen labeled it "horrible". Indian grandmaster Sarin, who played Naroditsky in his last digital game, accused Kramnik of "causing a death", saying his vigilante campaign against suspected cheaters was ineffective and "completely unacceptable". Grandmaster's Impact A graduate of Stanford and former world youth champion, Naroditsky gathered more than 800k fans on Twitch and YouTube. Referred to as Danya, he was celebrated for his wit, insight and modesty, becoming a leading voice in chess's pandemic-era boom. He was also among the globe's top competitors under rapid formats, placing ninth at last year's blitz world championship in New York. Naroditsky consistently denied the accusations but acknowledged the toll they had taken on his mental health. "Ever since the Kramnik stuff, I feel like if I begin performing strongly, people suspect foul play," Naroditsky remarked in his last online broadcast. Organizational Statements The International Chess Federation (Fide) announced recently it was "investigating" Kramnik's behavior. "Kramnik's methodology simply can't be accepted," Fide chief executive Sutovsky stated. The organization intends to commemorate Naroditsky with a memorial award. Federation president Dvorkovich later verified that all of Kramnik's official remarks about Naroditsky, prior to and following his passing, would be submitted to the organisation's Ethics and Disciplinary Commission "for independent consideration". "Human life and dignity are core principles universally upheld," Dvorkovich emphasized. "The chess community has long respected the achievements of GM Vladimir Kramnik, but such stature brings a responsibility to uphold the principles of equity and consideration." Loved Ones' Wish Naroditsky's relatives have expressed they hope he is recalled not because of the hostility he endured but for "the joy and inspiration he provided others every day". Magnus Carlsen described him "an asset to chess", while Hikaru Nakamura described him as "the best of us". In the US, you can call or text the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline on 988, chat on 988lifeline.org, or message HOME to 741741 to connect with a support specialist. In the UK and Ireland, The Samaritans can be contacted on freephone 116 123, or email [email protected] or [email protected]. In Australia, the crisis support service Lifeline is 13 11 14. Other international helplines can be found at befrienders.org.