🔗 Share this article Vladimir Kramnik Denies Wrongdoing in Death of US Chess Star Naroditsky The former world champion has broken his silence after the death of American grandmaster Daniel Naroditsky, calling the 29-year-old's loss as a heartbreaking event while accusing critics for launching what he termed an "unprecedentedly cynical and unlawful campaign of harassment" against him and his loved ones. Kramnik's Statement The 50-year-old ex-champion, who has faced widespread condemnation for alleging Naroditsky of online cheating lacking proof, offered sympathies but denied any personal attacks. "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, openly urged for him to receive help," Kramnik declared. "The ensuing efforts, right after his passing, to directly link this tragic event to my name … violate every limit of fundamental human decency." Kramnik asserted his earlier requests for examination of Naroditsky's online play had been ignored "despite a significant amount of evidence", and stated he would provide material to "appropriate officials". He mentioned his lawyers were preparing legal actions over "false accusations" that have resulted in dangers against him and his family. Investigation Details The death of Naroditsky may have been the result of a drug overdose and is being investigated as a possible suicide, according to a law enforcement document issued last Thursday. A statement from Charlotte authorities indicates Naroditsky was discovered deceased 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 located and later declared dead by a medical professional." Chess World Response Anger over Kramnik's behavior has dominated the chess world. Hikaru Nakamura described his actions "disgusting", while five-time world champion Carlsen described it as "terrible". GM from India Sarin, who faced Naroditsky in his last digital game, blamed Kramnik for "causing a death", saying his vigilante campaign against suspected cheaters was ineffective and "totally inappropriate". Grandmaster's Impact A Stanford-educated prodigy and ex-youth titleholder, Naroditsky gathered more than 800k fans on Twitch and YouTube. Referred to as Danya, he was praised 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, finishing ninth at last year's speed chess title event 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 said in his last online broadcast. Official Responses The International Chess Federation (Fide) announced recently it was "looking into" Kramnik's behavior. "The way Kramnik approaches it simply can't be accepted," Fide chief executive Sutovsky stated. The federation intends to commemorate Naroditsky with a tribute prize. Federation president Dvorkovich later confirmed that all of Kramnik's official remarks about Naroditsky, before and after his death, would be submitted to the federation's disciplinary body "for independent consideration". "Human life and dignity are core principles shared by all of us," Dvorkovich emphasized. "The chess community has always valued the accomplishments of GM Vladimir Kramnik, but such stature brings a duty to uphold the principles of equity and consideration." Family's Hope Naroditsky's family have said they wish he is remembered not for the hostility he endured but for "the joy and inspiration he provided others every day". Magnus Carlsen described him "a resource to the chess community", while Nakamura described him as "among the finest". In the US, you can call or text the Suicide Prevention Hotline on 988, chat on 988lifeline.org, or text 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]. Across Australia, the crisis support service Lifeline Australia is 13 11 14. Other international helplines can be found at befrienders.org.