Florida AG Launches Probe Into OpenAI Over Alleged ChatGPT Role in Campus Shooting

The investigation comes after a victim's family claimed the AI chatbot was used to plan the attack that killed two and injured five at Florida State University.

Apr. 9, 2026 at 8:11pm by Ben Kaplan

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A highly detailed, glowing 3D illustration of a complex, futuristic cybernetic neural network system in shades of neon blue, purple, and magenta, conceptually representing the advanced AI technology at the heart of the ChatGPT controversy.The intricate, illuminated neural network of the ChatGPT AI system at the center of a troubling investigation into its alleged role in a deadly campus shooting.San Francisco Today

Florida's Attorney General, James Uthmeier, announced that his office will investigate OpenAI over the alleged role of ChatGPT in a deadly shooting at Florida State University last year. The family of one of the victims claims ChatGPT was used to plan the attack that killed two people and injured five others. Uthmeier stated that 'AI should advance mankind, not destroy it,' and that 'wrongdoers must be held accountable'.

Why it matters

The investigation highlights growing concerns over the potential misuse of AI technology, particularly in the wake of incidents where chatbots like ChatGPT have been linked to violent acts. This case raises questions about AI safety, regulation, and the responsibility of tech companies in preventing their products from being used for harmful purposes.

The details

According to the report, in April 2025, a gunman opened fire on the Florida State University campus, killing two people and injuring five others. Last week, attorneys for one of the victims claimed that ChatGPT had been used to plan the attack. The family of the victim has said they plan to sue OpenAI over the incident.

  • The shooting occurred in April 2025 on the Florida State University campus.
  • Last week, attorneys for one of the victims claimed ChatGPT was used to plan the attack.
  • On April 9, 2026, Florida's Attorney General announced an investigation into OpenAI over the alleged role of ChatGPT in the shooting.

The players

James Uthmeier

The Attorney General of Florida who announced the investigation into OpenAI.

OpenAI

The artificial intelligence company that developed the ChatGPT chatbot, which is allegedly linked to the Florida State University shooting.

ChatGPT

The AI chatbot developed by OpenAI that is claimed to have been used to plan the attack at Florida State University.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“AI should advance mankind, not destroy it. We're demanding answers on OpenAI's activities that have hurt kids, endangered Americans, and facilitated the recent FSU mass shooting. Wrongdoers must be held accountable.”

— James Uthmeier, Florida Attorney General

“Each week, more than 900 million people use ChatGPT to improve their daily lives through uses such as learning new skills or navigating complex healthcare systems. Our ongoing safety work continues to play an important role in delivering these benefits to everyday people, as well as supporting scientific research and discovery. We build ChatGPT to understand people's intent and respond in a safe and appropriate way, and we continue improving our technology. We will cooperate with the Attorney General's investigation.”

— OpenAI Spokesperson

What’s next

The Florida Attorney General's office has stated that subpoenas are 'forthcoming' as part of the investigation into OpenAI's activities related to the Florida State University shooting.

The takeaway

This investigation highlights the growing concerns over the potential misuse of AI technology, particularly in the wake of incidents where chatbots like ChatGPT have been linked to violent acts. It raises important questions about AI safety, regulation, and the responsibility of tech companies in preventing their products from being used for harmful purposes.