A man has been charged with attempting to kill OpenAI CEO Sam Altman and a security guard at Altman’s home in San Francisco, according to San Francisco district attorney Brooke Jenkins. The accused, Daniel Moreno-Gama, allegedly threw a Molotov cocktail at Altman’s residence and later threatened to burn down OpenAI’s headquarters. Moreno-Gama, 20, expressed opposition to artificial intelligence and its perceived dangers to humanity.
FBI San Francisco acting special agent in charge, Matt Cobo, stated that the attack was premeditated, targeted, and grave. Moreno-Gama faces state charges, including attempted murder and arson, with potential penalties of 19 years to life in prison.
In addition to state charges, Moreno-Gama also faces federal charges for possessing an unregistered firearm and causing property damage with explosives. These federal charges could lead to penalties of up to 10 and 20 years in prison. Neighbors described Moreno-Gama’s family in Texas as active church members and pleasant individuals.
Altman and OpenAI Confirm Targeting
Altman and OpenAI confirmed being the targets of the attack, although no injuries were reported. Moreno-Gama allegedly traveled from Texas to San Francisco to carry out the assault.
Authorities found incendiary devices, kerosene, a lighter, and a threatening document in Moreno-Gama’s possession during his arrest in San Francisco. U.S. attorney Craig Missakian stated that the incident would be treated as domestic terrorism, and Moreno-Gama would be prosecuted accordingly.
Advocacy groups expressing concerns about AI’s societal risks condemned the violence, emphasizing the need for peaceful dialogue and actions. Altman, in response to the threats, shared a personal photo online urging for de-escalation in discussions surrounding artificial intelligence.