OpenAI CEO Apologizes for Not Alerting Authorities About Tumbler Ridge Shooter's ChatGPT Account

OpenAI CEO Sam Altman has issued a formal apology to the community of Tumbler Ridge, British Columbia, for the company's failure to alert law enforcement about the ChatGPT account of Jesse Van Rootselaar, who later committed a mass shooting in the town. In a letter dated April 23, 2026, Altman expressed his deepest condolences, stating, "I am deeply sorry that we did not alert law enforcement to the account that was banned in June."

The letter was shared on social media by British Columbia Premier David Eby and published by local news outlet Tumbler RidgeLines. Altman acknowledged the community's grief and emphasized the need for the apology to recognize the harm and irreversible loss suffered.

In June 2025, OpenAI had banned Van Rootselaar's ChatGPT account for violating its usage policy due to potential for real-world violence. However, the company did not inform authorities at the time, believing the behavior did not warrant referral.

On February 10, 2026, Van Rootselaar, 18, killed eight people, including her mother, stepbrother, five children, and an educator, before taking her own life.

Premier Eby described Altman's apology as "necessary, and yet grossly insufficient for the devastation done to the families of Tumbler Ridge."

Altman pledged to work with all levels of government to prevent similar tragedies in the future.