OpenAI is facing a wrongful death lawsuit that claims ChatGPT helped pave the way for last year's mass shooting at Florida State University. Filed in federal court by Vandana Joshi, whose husband Tiru Chabba was killed in the April 2025 attack, the suit argues the chatbot failed to "connect the dots" as alleged gunman and FSU student Phoenix Ikner used it to discuss guns, mass shootings, and his plans, per NBC News. According to the complaint, Ikner shared photos of his firearms and received basic instructions on how to use a gun, guidance on when the student union would be busiest, and commentary on how shootings involving children draw more national attention.
OpenAI disputes any responsibility, saying ChatGPT simply returned factual information available widely online and did not encourage violence. The company says it cooperated with law enforcement and is continually tightening safety controls. Joining a growing list of lawsuits claiming AI chatbots contributed to shootings and suicides, Joshi's suit contends ChatGPT essentially acted as a co-conspirator, per WFLA. It allegedly flattered and engaged a lonely, depressed student, encouraging his "delusions," and helping him refine the timing and logistics of an attack that left two people dead. Florida's attorney general has launched a criminal investigation into OpenAI, and the family of Robert Morales, another victim of the FSU shooting, is also planning to sue.
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