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Manuel Otto, the creator of popular video game Stick Run, has died, according to a statement from his company. He was 30.
The German influencer died in an apparent suicide on a Twitch livestream Tuesday, in which he was seen lighting himself on fire. Otto’s channel and livestream were pulled off the streaming platform shortly after the incident.
“It is with a heavy heart that we confirm and announce the passing of our creator, developer, and fellow Stick Runner, Marc-Manuel Alexander Otto,” a Stick Run spokesperson said in a statement shared Wednesday on Facebook.
Otto was only 14 when he created the free mobile game Stick Run in 2010. With millions of players worldwide, the game allows players to control a stick figure running through an obstacle course.
“Stick Run was more than just a game,” the company’s statement said. “For so many of us, it was a part of our childhood. A game we grew up playing with friends, sharing laughs, competing for high scores, and making memories that will stay with us for a lifetime. It brought people together and became a cherished part of our childhood.”
The statement continued: “Today, we mourn not only the loss of our creator, but also a fellow Stick Runner whose work became a part of our lives. His legacy will live on through every memory, every run, and every player who grew up playing Stick Run.”
A spokesperson for Stick Run said in a Facebook post shared Tuesday that the company was “aware of a livestream on Twitch” in which Otto “appeared to have taken his own life.”
“We are deeply concerned by this situation and ask that everyone respect the privacy of those involved during this difficult time. We encourage the community to refrain from spreading unverified information or speculation,” the company said. The statement then encouraged anyone with information about the incident, which occurred at an apartment in Bavaria, Germany, to contact police.
A spokesperson for Twitch told The Independent in a statement that the company “moved quickly” to remove Otto’s livestream and his channel “to prevent it from being viewed by others.”
“What took place is horrible, and the mental health and wellbeing of our community matters deeply to us,” the spokesperson said.
“We encourage anyone who may be struggling to seek support, and we offer tools on Twitch to help people connect with local mental health resources in their area.”
If you are experiencing feelings of distress, or are struggling to cope, you can speak to the Samaritans, in confidence, on 116 123 (UK and ROI) or visit the Samaritans website to find details of your nearest branch.
If you are based in the USA, and you or someone you know needs mental health assistance right now, call or text 988, or visit 988lifeline.org to access online chat from the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. This is a free, confidential crisis hotline that is available to everyone 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
If you are in another country, you can go to www.befrienders.org to find a helpline near you.
