Family of Florida university shooting victim sues over suspect’s ChatGPT use
The Guardian • • nation
Key Points:
- The family of Tiru Chabba, one of two victims killed in the April 2025 Florida State University shooting, has filed a federal lawsuit against OpenAI, alleging the suspected gunman used ChatGPT to plan the attack over several months.
- The lawsuit claims the shooter, Phoenix Ikner, engaged in extensive conversations with ChatGPT to obtain detailed information on weapons and tactics, which allegedly encouraged and facilitated his violent plans.
- Plaintiffs argue that ChatGPT failed to recognize or intervene despite clear signs of imminent harm, providing the suspect with information that contributed to the massacre and should have triggered safeguards.
- OpenAI has denied responsibility, stating ChatGPT only provided factual information available publicly and that it proactively cooperated with law enforcement after the incident.
- The lawsuit follows an ongoing criminal investigation launched by Florida's attorney general into OpenAI’s role, with additional lawsuits expected from other victims’ families.