British Columbia sues OpenAI and Sam Altman over Tumbler Ridge school shooting

The reporting differs on key details. Mother Jones reports Van Rootselaar used a second ChatGPT account after the first was banned, and that the chatbot provided tactical advice on firearms and evading moderation. The Guardian and Ars Technica say OpenAI safety staff recommended contacting police but leadership overruled them, citing whistleblowers. Tom's Hardware, citing an Ars Technica report, adds that the complaint challenges OpenAI's Model Spec and notes an anti-violence "red line" was only added in December 2025. Figures vary: Mother Jones says over three dozen family lawsuits were filed; The Guardian says more than 30; Tom's Hardware says 37. The federal and provincial governments have committed $100 million each for a new school, per Tom's Hardware.

OpenAI denies the allegations. A spokesperson called the shooting an "unspeakable tragedy" and said the company remains committed to safety work and collaboration with authorities. The company previously stated the flagged conversations did not meet its internal criteria for law enforcement reporting. Multiple Canadian authorities continue to investigate the shooting.