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Vladimir Kramnik has spoken out after the tragic passing of US chess star Daniel Naroditsky, describing the 29-year-old's loss as a heartbreaking event while condemning critics for launching what he termed an "deeply cynical and unlawful targeted 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 lacking proof, expressed condolences but denied any personal attacks.

"Despite the tensions, I was the only person 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 subsequent attempts, right after his passing, to directly link this sorrowful incident to my name … cross all boundaries of fundamental human decency."

Kramnik asserted his earlier calls for a review of Naroditsky's digital games had been ignored "despite a significant amount of evidence", and claimed 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.

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 police report released Thursday. A statement from Charlotte authorities says Naroditsky was discovered deceased Sunday evening and describes the case as a "Death/suicide/overdose/Sudden/Natural Death Investigation."

"Last Sunday, October 19 at around 7:11 PM, officers answered an assist medic call in the area of 9000 Colin Crossing," the report says. "Upon arrival, an unresponsive subject was located and later pronounced deceased by a medical professional."

Community Reaction

Outrage regarding Kramnik's behavior has shaken the chess world. Grandmaster Nakamura called his behavior "disgusting", while five-time world champion Carlsen described it as "terrible". GM from India Sarin, who played Naroditsky in his last digital game, 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 former world youth champion, Naroditsky amassed over 800,000 followers on streaming platforms. Referred to as Danya, he was praised 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 speed chess title event in New York.

Naroditsky repeatedly refuted the allegations but acknowledged the toll they had taken on his mental health. "Ever since the Kramnik stuff, I feel like if I start doing well, people suspect foul play," Naroditsky said in his last online broadcast.

Organizational Statements

The International Chess Federation (Fide) announced recently it was "investigating" Kramnik's behavior. "Kramnik's methodology simply can't be accepted," Fide chief executive Sutovsky commented. The federation intends to commemorate Naroditsky with a tribute prize.

Fide president Dvorkovich later verified that all of Kramnik's public statements about Naroditsky, before and after his death, would be submitted to the organisation's Ethics and Disciplinary Commission "to be reviewed independently".

"Life and human worth are fundamental values universally upheld," Dvorkovich emphasized. "Our global chess family has long respected the achievements of GM Vladimir Kramnik, but such status brings a duty to maintain the standards of equity and consideration."

Loved Ones' Wish

Naroditsky's family have expressed they wish he is recalled not because of the hostility he endured but for "the joy and inspiration he brought people every day". Magnus Carlsen described him "a resource to the chess community", while Hikaru Nakamura referred to him as "among the finest".

• In the US, you can call or text the Suicide Prevention Hotline on 988, communicate via 988lifeline.org, or text HOME to 741741 to reach a support specialist.
• Throughout Britain and Ireland, Samaritans can be contacted on freephone 116 123, or email [email protected] or [email protected].
• Across Australia, the emergency help line Lifeline Australia is 13 11 14.
• Other international helplines can be located through befrienders.org.