🔗 Share this article Vladimir Kramnik Denies Misconduct in Passing of US Chess Star Daniel Naroditsky The former world champion has broken his silence after the death of US chess star Daniel Naroditsky, calling the 29-year-old's loss as a heartbreaking event while condemning critics for launching 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 ex-champion, who has faced widespread condemnation for accusing Naroditsky of digital foul play without evidence, expressed condolences but denied any individual targeting. "Regardless of our differences, I was the only person in the chess community who, noticing on video Daniel's obvious health issues a day before his death, openly urged for him to get assistance," Kramnik stated. "The ensuing efforts, immediately following his passing, to explicitly connect this tragic event to my name … cross all boundaries of basic human morality." Kramnik asserted his earlier requests for examination of Naroditsky's digital games had been ignored "despite a significant amount of evidence", and stated he would submit documentation to "appropriate officials". He mentioned his lawyers were drafting civil and criminal suits over "false accusations" that have resulted in dangers against him and his family. Investigation Details The demise of the grandmaster may have been the consequence of substance overuse and is being investigated as a possible suicide, based on a law enforcement document issued last 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." "Last Sunday, October 19 at around 7:11 PM, officers responded to an assist medic call in the vicinity of Colin Crossing," the document states. "When they reached the scene, an unresponsive subject was located and later declared dead by a medical professional." Community Reaction Outrage regarding Kramnik's conduct has dominated the chess world. Grandmaster Nakamura described his actions "disgusting", while five-time world champion Magnus Carlsen described it as "horrible". GM from India Nihal Sarin, who played Naroditsky in his final online match, accused Kramnik of "causing a death", saying his vigilante campaign against alleged rule-breakers was fruitless and "totally inappropriate". Naroditsky's Legacy A Stanford-educated prodigy and ex-youth titleholder, Naroditsky amassed over 800,000 followers on streaming platforms. Referred to as Danya, he was celebrated for his wit, insight and modesty, becoming a prominent figure in chess's pandemic-era boom. He was also one of the world's finest players under shorter time controls, placing ninth at last year's blitz world championship in New York. Naroditsky repeatedly refuted the accusations but admitted the impact they had taken on his mental health. "Ever since the Kramnik stuff, I feel like if I start doing well, people assume the worst," Naroditsky remarked in his last online broadcast. Official Responses The International Chess Federation (Fide) said this week it was "looking into" Kramnik's actions. "The way Kramnik approaches it simply can't be accepted," Fide chief executive Emil Sutovsky commented. The organization plans to honor Naroditsky with a memorial award. Fide president Arkady Dvorkovich later verified that all of Kramnik's public statements about Naroditsky, before and after his death, would be referred to the organisation's Ethics and Disciplinary Commission "for independent consideration". "Human life and dignity are fundamental values universally upheld," Dvorkovich emphasized. "Our global chess family 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 remembered not for the hostility he endured but for "the happiness and motivation he brought people every day". Magnus Carlsen called him "an asset to chess", while Hikaru Nakamura described him as "the best of us". Within the United States, individuals may contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline on 988, chat on 988lifeline.org, or message HOME to 741741 to reach a support specialist. Throughout Britain and Ireland, The Samaritans can be reached at 116 123, or message [email protected] or [email protected]. Across Australia, the emergency help line Lifeline is 13 11 14. Other international helplines can be located through befrienders.org.