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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 loss as a heartbreaking event while condemning critics for launching what he termed an "unprecedentedly cynical and unlawful campaign of harassment" against him and his loved ones.

Kramnik's Statement

The fifty-year-old former world champion, who has faced broad criticism for accusing Naroditsky of online cheating without evidence, offered sympathies but denied any individual targeting.

"Regardless of our differences, I was the sole individual in the chess community who, noticing on video Daniel's obvious health issues a day before his death, publicly called for him to receive help," Kramnik declared. "The subsequent attempts, immediately following his passing, to directly link this sorrowful incident to my name … cross all boundaries of basic human morality."

Kramnik said his earlier calls for a review of Naroditsky's online play had been overlooked "despite a significant amount of evidence", and claimed he would submit documentation to "any relevant authority". He mentioned his lawyers were preparing legal actions over "false accusations" that have resulted in dangers against him and his family.

Investigation Details

The demise of the grandmaster 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 discovered deceased Sunday evening and describes the case as a "Investigation into sudden death."

"On Sunday October 19th at around 7:11 PM, officers responded to an assist medic call in the area of 9000 Colin Crossing," the document states. "Upon arrival, an unconscious individual was located and later pronounced deceased by a medic."

Chess World Response

Anger over Kramnik's behavior has shaken the chess world. Grandmaster Nakamura described his actions "appalling", while reigning champion Carlsen described it as "horrible". Indian grandmaster Sarin, who faced Naroditsky in his final online match, accused Kramnik of "causing a death", saying his self-appointed pursuit against alleged rule-breakers was ineffective and "completely unacceptable".

Naroditsky's Legacy

A graduate of Stanford and ex-youth titleholder, Naroditsky gathered more than 800k fans on streaming platforms. Referred to as Danya, he was celebrated 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 rapid formats, placing ninth at last year's blitz world championship in New York.

Naroditsky repeatedly refuted the allegations but admitted the impact they had taken on his mental health. "Since the Kramnik controversy, I feel like if I begin performing strongly, people suspect foul play," Naroditsky remarked in his final livestream.

Official Responses

The World Chess Federation announced recently it was "investigating" Kramnik's actions. "Kramnik's methodology simply can't be accepted," Fide chief executive Emil Sutovsky commented. The federation plans to honor Naroditsky with a tribute prize.

Federation president Arkady Dvorkovich later verified that all of Kramnik's public statements about Naroditsky, before and after his death, would be referred to the organisation's Ethics and Disciplinary Commission "for independent consideration".

"Life and human worth are fundamental values universally upheld," Dvorkovich stressed. "The chess community has always valued the accomplishments of GM Vladimir Kramnik, but such status brings a duty to uphold the principles of equity and consideration."

Loved Ones' Wish

Naroditsky's relatives have said they wish he is recalled not because of 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 "the best of us".

• Within the United States, individuals may contact the Suicide Prevention Hotline on 988, chat on 988lifeline.org, or text HOME to 741741 to reach a support specialist.
• In the UK and Ireland, The Samaritans can be contacted on freephone 116 123, or message jo@samaritans.org or jo@samaritans.ie.
• Across Australia, the crisis support service Lifeline is 13 11 14.
• Global support contacts can be found at befrienders.org.