Florida’s Attorney General is investigating OpenAI and ChatGPT following analysis of conversations with the perpetrator of a 2025 Florida State University shooting.
Shooting and Investigation
Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier announced an investigation into ChatGPT and its creator, OpenAI, regarding their connection to the Florida State University (FSU) shooting.
The April 2025 shooting resulted in two deaths and six injuries. Phoenix Ikner, a 20-year-old student, is in custody and awaiting trial on charges of murder and attempted murder.
ChatGPT Provided Assistance
Investigators found that the shooter utilized ChatGPT prior to the attack. According to Uthmeier, the conversations suggest the AI system provided significant assistance to the perpetrator.
The shooter’s queries included questions about weapon firepower and ammunition selection. Uthmeier stated that if a human had engaged in similar conversations, they would have faced homicide charges.
OpenAI’s Response
OpenAI stated it is cooperating with authorities but denies responsibility for the tragedy. The company maintains that ChatGPT simply provided responses based on publicly available information and did not encourage or promote illegal or harmful actions.
Pre-Attack Queries
On the day of the attack, Ikner reportedly asked ChatGPT about potential societal reactions to a shooting and peak traffic times near a student dormitory.
Legal Challenges and Civil Action
Uthmeier announced a parallel civil proceeding to determine OpenAI’s potential liability. He acknowledged that pursuing criminal charges against a company in this context presents new and untested legal territory.
His office will investigate whether individuals were involved in the system’s design, management, and operation to a degree that warrants criminal responsibility.
