OpenAI Sued Over Tumbler Ridge Shooting, Aiding and Abetting Claims

OpenAI faces 30 new lawsuits alleging 'aiding and abetting' in Tumbler Ridge shooting.

OpenAI is facing 30 new lawsuits, filed by Edelson PC, related to the Tumbler Ridge mass shooting. These lawsuits accuse OpenAI of "aiding and abetting" the suspect, a significant escalation from previous claims of negligent failure to prevent the attack. The new plaintiffs include teachers, a principal, and students present during the incident. The lawsuits were filed in a California federal court.

The complaints name OpenAI Chief Global Affairs Officer Chris Lehane, alleging he instructed staff not to contact authorities regarding the suspect's activity. The suspect, Jesse Van Rootselaar, killed her mother and half-brother before killing six more people and injuring others at Tumbler Ridge Secondary School on February 10. OpenAI employees reportedly raised concerns about Van Rootselaar's use of ChatGPT, including discussions about gun violence and attack planning, but leaders reportedly decided against contacting law enforcement.

OpenAI has stated that Van Rootselaar's activity did not meet its internal criteria for "imminent and credible risk" to warrant law enforcement contact. The company deactivated Van Rootselaar's account, but she was able to create another. The lawsuits suggest a company culture that prioritizes public relations over safety, with Lehane's alleged involvement central to this claim.

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