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The former world champion has spoken out after the tragic passing of US chess star Daniel Naroditsky, calling the 29-year-old's demise as a heartbreaking event while accusing critics for launching what he termed an "deeply cynical and illegal targeted harassment" against him and his family.

Former Champion's Response

The 50-year-old ex-champion, who has faced broad criticism for accusing Naroditsky of online cheating without evidence, expressed condolences but rejected any personal attacks.

"Regardless of our differences, I was the only person in the chess community who, noticing on video 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 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 overlooked "even with substantial proof", and stated he would provide material to "appropriate officials". He noted his lawyers were drafting legal actions over "unfounded claims" that have led to threats 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 indicates Naroditsky was found dead Sunday evening and classifies the case as a "Investigation into sudden death."

"On Sunday October 19th at approximately 07:11pm, officers responded to an assist medic call in the area of 9000 Colin Crossing," the report says. "Upon arrival, an unconscious individual was located and later pronounced deceased by a medical professional."

Community Reaction

Anger over Kramnik's conduct has shaken the chess world. Hikaru Nakamura called his behavior "disgusting", while reigning champion Carlsen described it as "horrible". Indian grandmaster Nihal Sarin, who played Naroditsky in his last digital game, blamed Kramnik for "causing a death", saying his self-appointed pursuit against alleged rule-breakers was ineffective and "completely unacceptable".

Grandmaster's Impact

A Stanford-educated prodigy and former world youth champion, Naroditsky amassed over 800,000 followers on Twitch and YouTube. Known as Danya, he was celebrated for his humor, clarity and humility, becoming a prominent figure in chess's COVID-period surge. He was also one of the world's finest players under shorter time controls, finishing ninth at last year's blitz world championship in New York.

Naroditsky consistently denied the accusations but admitted the impact they had taken on his mental health. "Since the Kramnik controversy, I feel like if I start doing well, people assume the worst," Naroditsky said in his last online broadcast.

Organizational Statements

The World Chess Federation announced recently it was "investigating" Kramnik's actions. "The way Kramnik approaches it simply is unacceptable," Fide chief executive 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, prior to and following his passing, would be submitted to the federation's disciplinary body "to be reviewed independently".

"Human life and dignity are core principles shared by all of us," Dvorkovich stressed. "The chess community has long respected the accomplishments of GM Vladimir Kramnik, but such stature brings a responsibility to uphold the principles of fairness and respect."

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 provided others every day". Carlsen called him "a resource to the chess community", while Nakamura referred to him as "the best of us".

• In the US, individuals may contact the Suicide Prevention Hotline on 988, chat on 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 message [email protected] or [email protected].
• In Australia, the emergency help line Lifeline is 13 11 14.
• Global support contacts can be found at befrienders.org.