Chris “Zuna” Buechter was a prominent figure and one of the early stars in the young esports scene in League of Legends. He passed away on May 20, 2024, at the age of 33.
Who is it about? Chris “Zuna” Buechter was one of the first LoL players to compete in the North American Championship Series. In 2013, the bot laner achieved 3rd place in the playoffs with Team FeaR, which was later acquired by Team Vulcun, and qualified for the Season 3 World Championship.
In 2014, Zuna turned his back on LoL and switched to Blizzard’s MOBA Heroes of the Storm. Despite his relatively short career in League of Legends, he left a lasting impression in the esports scene.
On May 20, 2024, Zuna’s brother Kenneth Buechter announced that the esports professional had passed away at the age of 33 after a “sudden medical incident.”
Friends remember: “The happiest personality in and out of the rift”
This is how online mourning takes place: Numerous professional players and fans come together on social media to remember Zuna.
Jake “Xmithie” Puchero, coach at Immortals, writes: “Chris was one of my closest friends when we were in the LCS. He was the happiest person I know, in and out of the rift, and this news breaks my heart. He is far too young and too talented to leave us so soon. You will always be one of my GOATs. Rest in peace, Zuna.” (via X)
Valorant pro Harrison “Psalm” Chang was previously active in DOTA and Fortnite. However, he had his best times in esports with Heroes of the Storm: “Chris was one of my favorite teammates and players overall.” (via X)
BURNS_the_kid writes on Reddit: “One of the funniest and most charismatic people I have ever had the pleasure of knowing. I played WoW Classic/SoD with him for the last 5 years after seeing him compete in League/HotS.”
Fans remember Zuna primarily for his big and sometimes loud personality. Reddit user Inherent0 writes: “Zuna was one of the first personalities that pulled me into the LCS when I started watching it.”
Community supports brother with donations
To cover funeral expenses, Kenneth Buechter has launched a campaign on GoFundMe. Nearly $11,000 has already been raised, equivalent to just over €10,000.
A look at the donation history illustrates the special place Zuna held in the esports scene, as it features a number of esports athletes. Foremost is former pro Yilian “Doublelift” Peng, who contributed a donation of $1,000.
