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

Former Champion's Response

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

"Regardless of our differences, I was the only person in the chess community who, observing through footage Daniel's obvious health issues 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 fundamental human decency."

Kramnik asserted his earlier requests for examination of Naroditsky's online play had been ignored "even with substantial proof", and claimed 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 demise of the grandmaster may have been the result of a drug overdose and is being examined as a potential self-harm case, according to a police report 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."

"On Sunday October 19th at approximately 07:11pm, officers responded to an emergency medical request in the vicinity of Colin Crossing," the report says. "Upon arrival, an unconscious individual was found and later declared dead by a medic."

Community Reaction

Anger over Kramnik's behavior has shaken the chess world. Hikaru Nakamura described his actions "disgusting", while reigning champion Carlsen labeled it "terrible". 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 fruitless and "totally inappropriate".

Naroditsky's Legacy

A graduate of Stanford and former world youth champion, Naroditsky amassed over 800,000 followers 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 rapid formats, placing ninth at last year's blitz world championship 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 assume the worst," Naroditsky said in his final livestream.

Organizational Statements

The World Chess Federation announced recently it was "investigating" Kramnik's actions. "The way Kramnik approaches it simply is unacceptable," Fide CEO Emil Sutovsky commented. The organization intends to commemorate Naroditsky with a memorial award.

Fide president Arkady Dvorkovich later confirmed that all of Kramnik's official remarks about Naroditsky, prior to and following his passing, would be submitted to the organisation's Ethics and Disciplinary Commission "for independent consideration".

"Human life and dignity are core principles universally upheld," Dvorkovich emphasized. "The chess community has long respected the achievements of GM Vladimir Kramnik, but such stature brings a duty to uphold the principles of equity and consideration."

Loved Ones' Wish

Naroditsky's family have expressed they hope he is remembered not for 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 Nakamura referred to him as "among the finest".

• In the US, you can call or text the Suicide Prevention Hotline on 988, chat on 988lifeline.org, or message HOME to 741741 to reach a support specialist.
• In the UK and Ireland, The Samaritans can be reached at 116 123, or email jo@samaritans.org or jo@samaritans.ie.
• Across Australia, the emergency help line Lifeline is 13 11 14.
• Global support contacts can be located through befrienders.org.