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

Kramnik's Statement

The fifty-year-old ex-champion, who has faced broad criticism for accusing Naroditsky of online cheating lacking proof, offered sympathies but rejected 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 ensuing efforts, right after his passing, to directly link this tragic event to my name … violate every limit of basic human morality."

Kramnik said his earlier calls for a review of Naroditsky's online play had been overlooked "even with substantial proof", and claimed he would submit documentation to "appropriate officials". He noted his lawyers were preparing legal actions over "false accusations" that have resulted in dangers 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, based on a police report released Thursday. A report from the Charlotte-Mecklenburg police department says Naroditsky was discovered deceased Sunday evening and describes the case as a "Investigation into sudden death."

"Last Sunday, October 19 at approximately 07:11pm, officers responded to an assist medic call in the vicinity of Colin Crossing," the document states. "Upon arrival, an unconscious individual was located and later pronounced deceased by a medical professional."

Chess World Response

Anger over Kramnik's conduct has dominated the chess world. Hikaru Nakamura called his behavior "appalling", while reigning champion Carlsen labeled it "horrible". GM from India Sarin, who faced Naroditsky in his last digital game, accused Kramnik of "causing a death", saying his vigilante campaign against suspected cheaters was ineffective and "completely unacceptable".

Naroditsky's Legacy

A graduate of Stanford and former world youth champion, Naroditsky gathered more than 800k fans on streaming platforms. Referred to as Danya, he was celebrated for his humor, clarity and humility, becoming a prominent figure in chess's COVID-period surge. He was also among the globe's top competitors under shorter time controls, placing ninth at last year's speed chess title event in New York.

Naroditsky consistently denied the accusations but acknowledged the toll they had taken on his mental health. "Ever since the Kramnik stuff, I feel like if I begin performing strongly, people suspect foul play," Naroditsky said in his last online broadcast.

Organizational Statements

The World Chess Federation said this week it was "investigating" Kramnik's actions. "Kramnik's methodology 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 confirmed 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. "The chess community has long respected the achievements of GM Vladimir Kramnik, but such status brings a responsibility to uphold the principles of fairness and respect."

Loved Ones' Wish

Naroditsky's relatives have said they wish he is recalled not because of the confrontation he faced but for "the happiness and motivation he brought people every day". Magnus Carlsen described him "a resource to the chess community", while Nakamura described him as "the best of us".

• In the US, you can call or text the Suicide Prevention Hotline on 988, chat on 988lifeline.org, or message HOME to 741741 to connect with a crisis counselor.
• Throughout Britain and Ireland, The Samaritans can be reached at 116 123, or message [email protected] or [email protected].
• Across Australia, the crisis support service Lifeline is 13 11 14.
• Other international helplines can be located through befrienders.org.