Texas Man Charged with Attempted Murder in Attacks on OpenAI CEO's Home and Headquarters

A 20-year-old Texas man has been charged with attempted murder and arson following alleged attacks on OpenAI CEO Sam Altman's San Francisco home and the company's headquarters. Authorities allege that early on April 10, Daniel Moreno-Gama threw a Molotov cocktail at Altman's residence, igniting an exterior gate before fleeing. Approximately an hour later, he reportedly arrived at OpenAI's headquarters, where he threatened to burn down the building and harm those inside.

Moreno-Gama, who traveled from Spring, Texas, to San Francisco, is opposed to artificial intelligence, expressing concerns about AI's potential risks to humanity. At the time of his arrest, authorities recovered incendiary devices, kerosene, a lighter, and a document titled "Your Last Warning," which outlined opposition to AI and included threats against Altman and other AI executives.

San Francisco District Attorney Brooke Jenkins announced that Moreno-Gama faces state charges, including two counts of attempted murder and attempted arson, carrying potential penalties ranging from 19 years to life in prison. Federal charges include possession of an unregistered firearm and use of explosives, which could result in up to 30 years in prison.

During his initial court appearance, Moreno-Gama's public defender stated that he was experiencing a mental health crisis at the time of the incidents. Authorities are treating the case as domestic terrorism, emphasizing the seriousness of the alleged actions.

OpenAI confirmed the attacks and expressed gratitude to law enforcement for their swift response. The company has increased security measures at its headquarters and advised employees to remain vigilant.