Gaming influencer Manuel Otto who created Stick Run dies age 30 after 'taking his own life' on live stream

Influencer Manuel Otto has died age 30 following a horrifying incident during a live stream.

The content creator, who masterminded popular multiplayer game Stick Run when he was just 14, passed away on Tuesday evening in Germany.

He is believed to have taken his own life during a live broadcast on streaming platform Twitch.

Otto's death was confirmed in a statement released by the Stick Run company on Tuesday.

The post on X read: 'Stick Run is aware of a livestream on Twitch involving its creator and owner, Manuel Otto, in which he 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.'

It continued: 'We encourage the community to refrain from spreading unverified information or speculation.

'We understand that Twitch has since removed the livestream and associated video.'

The Stick Run company also urged viewers to come forward if they had 'any information that may help clarify the circumstances surrounding this incident.'

Earlier today, it posted a formal statement that read: 'Stick Run was more than just a game.

'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.'

It shared that Otto's work had become 'part of our lives,' adding: 'His legacy will live on through every memory, every run, and every player who grew up playing Stick Run.'

The post concluded by sharing condolences for Otto's family and friends as well as 'everyone whose life he touched.'

'You will never be forgotten. Rest in peace,' it read.

Gaming fans flooded to the comments to share their heartfelt condolences, as one wrote: 'I'm so sorry for your loss, I grew up with Stick Run so this hurts my heart to hear and to see.'

'This is too painful to hear. May he rest in peace, and thank you for all the good moments. I really loved his game as a kid,' another added.

'A piece of our childhood,' a third simply said. 

Stick Run describes itself as being 'an addictive multiplayer game where you play with as a Stick Man, dodge other obstacles and pass your friends.'

The free-to-play game launched on Facebook in 2010 before reaching mobile devices. It was reportedly played by more than 43 million people worldwide.

• You can dial the 24/7 US National Suicide Prevention hotline at 988 or go to SuicidePreventionLifeline.org