- Beloved caster Michael “KiXSTAr” Stockley tragically dies in a car crash
- The Rainbow Six community is at a loss for words
- Members of the wider esports community offer their condolences to Michael’s family
The Rainbow Six community has lost a dear member, as beloved caster Michael “KiXSTAr” Stockley, passed away on October 11, due to a car accident.
KiXSTAr Passed Away
Michael “KiXSTAr” Stockley was a well-known and respected Rainbow Six caster, who died at just 24 years of age a few days ago. Carol, his mother, who also goes by the name “KixMom” in the R6 community, announced on October 13 of Michael’s tragic fate.
Michael was a former R6 pro, who started his career in 2016 when the game was still young. He would help the community grow through his expert analysis and casting, winning the 2020 Esports Award for Esports Color Caster of the Year, and being nominated for the same reward for this year.
Carol said that Michael “had so much planned for the future, and he was looking forward to working with so many of you.” She said the family is grateful that so many members of the R6 community showed love and support. “Keep it going, pay it forward, and keep lifting each other up.”
Rainbow Six Community Responds
Naturally, the R6 community reacted to the tragic event. Michael’s colleague and friend INTERRO confirmed “Michael passed away doing what he loved second-most in this world: driving.”
“I’ve struggled to put my thoughts into proper words over the last 24 hours. “I’m at a total loss. I lost a best friend, a brother, and a coworker. I’m beyond heartbroken. I love you Michael and I’ll miss you so much.” He wrote.
Other professionals in the esports industry had a thing to say, like TSM pro Matthew “Achieved” Solomon. He tweeted that he looked up to KiXSTAr as he was switching from Xbox to PC. He offered condolences to KiXSTAr’s family.
Ubisoft’s Statement
Rainbow Six Siege’s developers paid tribute to KiXSTAr, writing “We send our deepest condolences to Michael Stockley’s family during this difficult time.”
In their tweet, they say that Michael was one of the bright lights of the R6 community. They added that the October 13 fixtures of the R6 North American League would be postponed out of respect for Michael.
Michael’s family also asks that anyone who wants can donate to a local food bank in Michael's name.
Ever since he took up casting in 2016, Michael “KiXSTAr” Stockley was an adamant supporter of the game and its community, helping to shape it into what it is now. He will surely be missed by many.
