Columbian Valorant pro Santiago “Daveeys” Ruiz died, just one week after his appearance at Valorant Champions 2023.
Daveeys died on September 3, just one day after his 23rd birthday, according to KRÜ Esports’ post last night. He was a vital member of KRÜ’s Valorant roster, participating in the Valorant Champions Tour’s Americas League.
His final tournament appearance was at Valorant Champions 2023, which concluded August 26.
Following the news of his death, esteemed figures and organizations within the Valorant community have extended their heartfelt condolences to Daveeys and his grieving loved ones.
KRÜ Esports reports that Daveeys died at 23
“It is with deep sadness that we have to inform you that, after suffering a decompensation on Sunday, Daveeys died,” KRÜ wrote. “There is no way to smooth this over; it took us all by surprise. He was a spectacular player and a first-class teammate. With his trademark hard-working humility, he was proud to inspire and represent his country and region at the pinnacle of global Valorant.”
KRÜ concluded their statement by urging the community to offer support to Ruiz’s friends and family during this challenging period. Daveeys’ funeral is scheduled for September 5 in Colombia, where fans are welcome to join the family in bidding their final farewell.
Riot Games also released an official statement, extending their condolences to Daveeys’ family, friends, and KRÜ teammates.
“Our players are the dreams they share with the world, the communities they represent, and the inspiration that accompanies what we do every single day,” Riot Games said. “His legacy will always be remembered.”
The Columbian esports pro began his career playing in 2016, initially competing in CS:GO. He participated in numerous tournaments and swiftly ascended within the LATAM esports scene. It didn’t take long until he started participating in S-tier events in the region.
In 2019, Daveeys joined Infinity Esports and competed in ESL Pro League Seasons 9 and 10. He retired from CS:GO in 2020 and transitioned to Valorant, where he became one of the top pro players in the LATAM region. Notably, he was part of LazerKlan’s roster that emerged victorious in the First Strike Latin America North tournament.
Daveeys’ most memorable tournament run happened in 2023 when KRÜ pulled off an unexpected run in the VCT Americas Last Chance Qualifier.
Although KRÜ finished the VCT Americas League regular season with a 0-9 record, the team’s fortunes took a dramatic turn when they won all five of their Americas LCQ matches, securing their spot in Valorant Champions 2023. KRÜ concluded their Champions 2023 campaign tied for 13th place.
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