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The former world champion has spoken out after the tragic passing of American grandmaster Daniel Naroditsky, describing the 29-year-old's demise as a tragedy while accusing critics for mounting what he termed an "unprecedentedly cynical and unlawful targeted harassment" against him and his family.

Kramnik's Statement

The 50-year-old former world champion, who has faced widespread condemnation for accusing Naroditsky of digital foul play lacking proof, expressed condolences but rejected any personal attacks.

"Regardless of our differences, I was the sole individual in the chess community who, observing through footage Daniel's obvious health issues a day before his death, openly urged for him to receive help," Kramnik stated. "The ensuing efforts, immediately following his passing, to directly link 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 "even with substantial proof", and stated he would submit documentation to "any relevant authority". He noted his lawyers were preparing 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 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 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 answered an emergency medical request in the area of 9000 Colin Crossing," the document states. "When they reached the scene, an unresponsive subject was located and later pronounced deceased by a medical professional."

Chess World Response

Outrage regarding Kramnik's conduct has dominated the chess world. Hikaru Nakamura described his actions "appalling", while reigning champion Carlsen described it as "horrible". GM from India Sarin, who faced Naroditsky in his final online match, accused Kramnik of "causing a death", saying his vigilante campaign against alleged rule-breakers was ineffective and "completely unacceptable".

Naroditsky's Legacy

A Stanford-educated prodigy 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 COVID-period surge. He was also one of the world's finest players under shorter time controls, placing 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 remarked in his last online broadcast.

Official Responses

The World Chess Federation announced recently it was "looking into" Kramnik's behavior. "The way Kramnik approaches it simply can't be accepted," Fide chief executive Emil Sutovsky stated. The organization intends to commemorate Naroditsky with a tribute prize.

Fide president Dvorkovich later verified that all of Kramnik's official remarks about Naroditsky, prior to and following his passing, would be submitted to the federation's disciplinary body "for independent consideration".

"Life and human worth are core principles shared by all of us," Dvorkovich stressed. "The chess community has always valued 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 wish he is recalled not because of the hostility he endured but for "the happiness and motivation he provided others every day". Carlsen called him "an asset to chess", while Nakamura described him as "the best of us".

• Within the United States, you can call or text the Suicide Prevention Hotline on 988, communicate via 988lifeline.org, or text HOME to 741741 to connect with a crisis counselor.
• Throughout Britain and Ireland, The Samaritans can be reached at 116 123, or message jo@samaritans.org or jo@samaritans.ie.
• Across Australia, the emergency help line Lifeline is 13 11 14.
• Other international helplines can be located through befrienders.org.