Toxicology Reveals Drugs Found in Late Chess Star Daniel Naroditsky’s System
American chess grandmaster Daniel Naroditsky had a combination of psychoactive and stimulant drugs in his system at the time of his death. This information comes from a toxicology report released by North Carolina authorities, detailing substances found after his passing in October 2025.
Toxicology Findings of Daniel Naroditsky
The toxicology report revealed that Naroditsky had four significant substances in his system:
- Methamphetamine
- Amphetamine
- Mitragynine
- 7-Hydroxymitragynine
Mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine are active compounds in kratom, a plant-based supplement that can function as either a stimulant or sedative, depending on the dosage. Methamphetamine and amphetamine are synthetic stimulants linked to severe health risks, including cardiovascular strain and potential fatal overdose.
Circumstances Surrounding Naroditsky’s Death
Naroditsky, 29, was found unresponsive at his home in Charlotte, North Carolina. Two close friends discovered him after attempts to reach him failed. Oleksandr Bortnyk, a fellow grandmaster, expressed concern for Naroditsky’s well-being prior to his death.
Before his passing, Naroditsky reportedly experienced significant distress, particularly over allegations made by former world champion Vladimir Kramnik. Kramnik accused Naroditsky of cheating in online matches, accusations that Naroditsky vehemently denied.
Responses from the Chess Community
Following Naroditsky’s death, Kramnik issued a statement offering condolences but also emphasized that his previous comments were mischaracterized. He faced backlash, including threats, prompting him to consider legal action against his critics.
The International Chess Federation (FIDE) is currently evaluating potential disciplinary measures against Kramnik for his remarks regarding Naroditsky.
Naroditsky’s Legacy in Chess
Naroditsky was a notable figure in modern chess. He became a grandmaster at 18 and graduated from Stanford University with a history degree. Renowned for his instructional content, he significantly contributed to the chess community’s growth during the pandemic.
He was recognized for his engaging streams on platforms like YouTube and Twitch, where he had over 800,000 followers. Naroditsky became a beloved mentor for both beginners and seasoned players alike.
Tributes and Memorials
After Naroditsky’s untimely death, tributes poured in from across the chess world. Magnus Carlsen referred to him as “a resource to the chess community,” while Hikaru Nakamura called him “the best of us.”
The US Championship observed a moment of silence, and FIDE has announced plans for a memorial award to honor Naroditsky’s contributions to the game.
