đŸ”— Share this article Vladimir Kramnik Denies Wrongdoing in Death of American Grandmaster Daniel Naroditsky Vladimir Kramnik has spoken out after the death of US chess star Daniel Naroditsky, calling the 29-year-old's loss as a heartbreaking event while accusing critics for launching what he termed an "deeply cynical and unlawful campaign of harassment" against him and his loved ones. Former Champion's Response The 50-year-old ex-champion, who has faced broad criticism for alleging Naroditsky of online cheating without evidence, expressed condolences but rejected any individual targeting. "Regardless of our differences, 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 get assistance," Kramnik stated. "The ensuing efforts, immediately following his passing, to directly link this sorrowful incident 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 civil and criminal suits over "unfounded claims" that have resulted in dangers against him and his family. Investigation Details The demise of the grandmaster may have been the result of a drug overdose and is being investigated as a possible suicide, based on a police report issued last Thursday. A statement from Charlotte authorities says 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 emergency medical request 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 medic." Chess World Response Outrage regarding Kramnik's behavior has shaken the chess world. Hikaru Nakamura called his behavior "appalling", while reigning champion Carlsen described it as "horrible". Indian grandmaster Nihal Sarin, who faced Naroditsky in his last digital game, blamed Kramnik for "causing a death", saying his self-appointed pursuit against alleged rule-breakers was fruitless and "totally inappropriate". Grandmaster's Impact A Stanford-educated prodigy and former world youth champion, Naroditsky gathered more than 800k fans on Twitch and YouTube. Known as Danya, he was celebrated for his wit, insight and modesty, becoming a prominent figure in chess's COVID-period surge. He was also one of the world's finest players under rapid formats, finishing 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 psychological well-being. "Ever since the Kramnik stuff, I feel like if I begin performing strongly, people assume the worst," Naroditsky remarked in his last online broadcast. Organizational Statements The International Chess Federation (Fide) announced recently it was "investigating" Kramnik's actions. "Kramnik's methodology simply is unacceptable," Fide chief executive Emil Sutovsky commented. The federation plans to honor Naroditsky with a tribute prize. Fide president Dvorkovich later confirmed that all of Kramnik's public statements about Naroditsky, before and after his death, would be referred to the federation's disciplinary body "to be reviewed independently". "Human life and dignity are fundamental values shared by all of us," Dvorkovich stressed. "Our global chess family has long respected the achievements of GM Vladimir Kramnik, but such status brings a responsibility to maintain the standards 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 brought people every day". Carlsen described him "an asset to chess", while Nakamura described him as "among the finest". In the US, individuals may contact the Suicide Prevention Hotline on 988, chat on 988lifeline.org, or message HOME to 741741 to reach a crisis counselor. In the UK and Ireland, Samaritans can be reached at 116 123, or message [email protected] or [email protected]. In Australia, the emergency help line Lifeline Australia is 13 11 14. Global support contacts can be located through befrienders.org.