🔗 Share this article Former world champion Kramnik Denies Wrongdoing in Passing of US Chess Star Naroditsky Vladimir Kramnik has broken his silence after the tragic passing of American grandmaster Daniel Naroditsky, describing the 29-year-old's loss as a tragedy while accusing critics for mounting what he termed an "unprecedentedly cynical and illegal campaign of harassment" against him and his loved ones. Former Champion's Response The 50-year-old former world champion, who has faced broad criticism for accusing Naroditsky of digital foul play without evidence, offered sympathies but denied any individual targeting. "Despite the tensions, I was the sole individual in the chess community who, observing through footage Daniel's apparent health concerns a day before his death, publicly called for him to receive help," Kramnik declared. "The ensuing efforts, immediately following his passing, to explicitly connect this tragic event to my name … violate every limit of basic human morality." Kramnik said his earlier calls for a review of Naroditsky's digital games had been overlooked "despite a significant amount of evidence", and claimed he would submit documentation to "appropriate officials". He mentioned his lawyers were drafting civil and criminal suits over "unfounded claims" that have led to threats against him and his family. Police Findings The death of Naroditsky may have been the consequence of substance overuse and is being investigated as a possible suicide, according to a law enforcement document released Thursday. A statement from Charlotte authorities indicates Naroditsky was found dead Sunday evening and classifies the case as a "Investigation into sudden death." "On Sunday October 19th at around 7:11 PM, officers answered an assist medic call in the vicinity of Colin Crossing," the document states. "Upon arrival, an unresponsive subject was located and later pronounced deceased by a medical professional." Chess World Response Outrage regarding Kramnik's behavior has shaken the chess world. Grandmaster Nakamura described his actions "appalling", while five-time world champion Carlsen labeled it "horrible". Indian grandmaster Nihal Sarin, who played Naroditsky in his final online match, blamed Kramnik for "taking a life", saying his vigilante campaign against suspected cheaters was fruitless and "totally inappropriate". Grandmaster's Impact A Stanford-educated prodigy and ex-youth titleholder, Naroditsky gathered more than 800k fans on Twitch and YouTube. Known as Danya, he was praised for his humor, clarity and humility, becoming a leading voice in chess's pandemic-era boom. He was also one of the world's finest players under rapid formats, finishing ninth at last year's speed chess title event in New York. Naroditsky repeatedly refuted the accusations but admitted the impact they had taken on his psychological well-being. "Ever since the Kramnik stuff, I feel like if I start doing well, people suspect foul play," Naroditsky said in his final livestream. Organizational Statements The International Chess Federation (Fide) announced recently it was "investigating" Kramnik's behavior. "The way Kramnik approaches it simply can't be accepted," Fide CEO Sutovsky stated. The federation plans to honor Naroditsky with a tribute prize. Federation president Dvorkovich later confirmed that all of Kramnik's public statements about Naroditsky, prior to and following his passing, would be referred 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 accomplishments of GM Vladimir Kramnik, but such status brings a responsibility to uphold the principles of equity and consideration." Loved Ones' Wish Naroditsky's relatives have expressed they hope he is remembered not for the confrontation he faced but for "the happiness and motivation he brought people every day". Magnus Carlsen called him "an asset to chess", while 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 crisis counselor. Throughout Britain and Ireland, The Samaritans can be reached at 116 123, or email jo@samaritans.org or jo@samaritans.ie. In Australia, the crisis support service Lifeline Australia is 13 11 14. Global support contacts can be found at befrienders.org.