Chess grandmaster Daniel Naroditsky has died at 29, the Charlotte Chess Center announced on Monday, Oct. 20.
In a statement shared to social media on behalf of the Naroditsky family, the center called the former World Junior Champion's death "unexpected."
"Daniel was a talented chess player, commentator, and educator, and a cherished member of the chess community, admired and respected by fans and players around the world," it said. "He was also a loving son and brother, and a loyal friend to many."
The center and family asked for privacy as they grieve Naroditsky's loss.
Naroditsky was a California native who played in five U.S. Championships, according to the U.S. Chess Federation, and secured titles in junior and youth competitions. He won the gold medal in the Under-12 Open section of the 2007 FIDE World Youth Championships, and he won the 2013 U.S. Junior Championship at age 17.
