A new lawsuit accuses OpenAI of contributing to a 2025 mass shooting by providing advice through its ChatGPT chatbot. The widow of a victim killed during the attack at Florida State University in Tallahassee filed the complaint on Sunday, May 10, in federal court. The April 2025 shooting left two people dead and six others wounded.
Details of the Lawsuit
Vandana Joshi, whose husband Tiru Chabba died in the incident, alleges that OpenAI was aware of the potential for misuse of its technology. Prosecutors believe the defendant, Phoenix Ikner, consulted ChatGPT about the optimal location and time to find the most victims, as well as specific advice on firearms and ammunition.
According to the legal filing, the chatbot reportedly told Ikner that shootings involving children could draw more national attention, stating that "even 2-3 victims can draw more attention."
OpenAI's Response
OpenAI spokesman Drew Pusateri denied any wrongdoing, asserting that the chatbot provided factual responses broadly available on the internet and did not promote illegal activity. However, this case follows a series of legal challenges faced by AI companies.
In August 2024, the parents of 16-year-old Adam Raine sued OpenAI for wrongful death after their son exchanged suicidal messages with the chatbot before taking his own life. The lawsuit alleged that the teenager easily bypassed safeguarding features intended to prevent harmful interactions.
Criminal Investigation Underway
The Florida Attorney General confirmed in April that a rare criminal investigation is underway to determine if the AI's responses to Ikner crossed legal boundaries.
Broader Legal Context
This case adds to a growing wave of litigation against tech giants. In March, juries in Los Angeles and New Mexico found Meta and YouTube liable for harms related to children's mental health and exploitation. If convicted, Ikner, who has pleaded not guilty, faces the death penalty.
