Florida Opens Investigation into OpenAI Over Alleged Link to Shooting

Florida investigates OpenAI

ChatGPT linked to shooting

Legal debate over artificial intelligence

Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier announced Tuesday a criminal investigation into OpenAI over the use of its tool ChatGPT in a mass shooting case that occurred in 2025.

The case opens a legal debate over whether an artificial intelligence company can be considered responsible for influencing criminal acts.

Prosecutors point to possible responsibility of ChatGPT

“The Attorney General of Florida, James Uthmeier, announced this Tuesday a criminal investigation against OpenAI and its artificial intelligence tool ChatGPT for allegedly ‘advising’ the person responsible for a mass shooting that left two dead…” pic.twitter.com/tibma16DGN

— HCH Televisión Digital (@HCHTelevDigital) April 21, 2026

According to EFE, Uthmeier said the investigation began after reviewing conversations between ChatGPT and Phoenix Ikner, a 21-year-old student accused of the shooting.

The attack left two dead and seven injured at Florida State University in April 2025.

According to the attorney general, the system allegedly offered “significant advice” before the crime.

Among these, he mentioned recommendations about the type of weapon and suitable ammunition.

“Florida is leading the way in taking strong action against the use of AI in criminal behavior,” Uthmeier said in regards to the investigation against OpenAI.

The official added that if ChatGPT were a person, it would face murder charges.

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The investigation seeks to determine whether OpenAI has criminal responsibility in the case.

State law considers it a crime to “aid, abet, or advise” someone who commits a crime.

Authorities demand information from OpenAI

OpenAI Investigation Over Florida Shooting – PHOTO: SHUTTERSTOCK

As part of the process, authorities issued a subpoena to the company.

OpenAI must hand over internal policies and training materials related to risks of harm to third parties.

Officials also requested information about cooperation protocols with authorities.

In addition, they asked for a list of executives, managers, and employees.

Mark Glass, commissioner of the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, stressed the importance of the investigation against OpenAI.

He said it is necessary to understand the risks of this technology and its impact on communities.

The official noted that AI has already caused harm that must be analyzed.

The legal debate over artificial intelligence grows

The case takes place within a broader context of legal actions in Florida against artificial intelligence companies.

In March, a family filed a lawsuit against the chatbot Gemini.

The claim argues that the system led a man to suicide by making him believe they were in a romantic relationship.

It also argues that the tool made him think his death was necessary.

These cases have intensified the debate over AI regulation.

Governor Ron DeSantis announced in December his intention to push for state laws on this technology.

The proposals include regulation of data centers and protective measures for users.

However, these initiatives contrast with the position of President Donald Trump.

The president has called for a single federal framework to avoid state-by-state regulation.

The investigation against OpenAI could set a precedent on the legal limits of artificial intelligence.

Authorities will evaluate whether the company had a role in the events and whether state law can be applied to this kind of technology.