A man has been accused of throwing a Molotov cocktail at the residence of OpenAI CEO Sam Altman, with charges filed for attempting to kill Altman and a security guard. The alleged perpetrator, Daniel Moreno-Gama, 20, reportedly ignited an exterior gate at Altman’s home before fleeing on foot in the early hours of Friday. He then proceeded to OpenAI’s headquarters nearby and threatened to set the building ablaze.
Moreno-Gama, known for his opposition to artificial intelligence, has expressed concerns about AI’s potential risks to humanity in written materials. Authorities have emphasized the premeditated and targeted nature of the attack, describing it as a serious incident.
Facing state charges of attempted murder and attempted arson in California, Moreno-Gama could potentially receive a sentence ranging from 19 years to life imprisonment. Additionally, federal prosecutors have charged him with possession of an unregistered firearm and property damage by explosives, carrying penalties of up to 10 and 20 years in prison, respectively.
Following a search of Moreno-Gama’s residence in Spring, Texas, federal agents are yet to disclose if he has legal representation. Altman and OpenAI have confirmed being the intended targets of the attack, which fortunately resulted in no injuries.
Law enforcement officials found incendiary devices and related materials in Moreno-Gama’s possession upon his arrest in San Francisco. His documented anti-AI sentiments and threats against Altman were detailed in court documents. The FBI’s investigation includes surveillance footage capturing Moreno-Gama’s actions at Altman’s home and OpenAI’s headquarters.
The incident has raised concerns about the security of technology companies, with authorities treating it as an act of domestic terrorism. Advocacy groups caution against violence in discussions about AI’s societal impact, condemning the attack as unwarranted. Altman has urged for a de-escalation of tensions surrounding AI, emphasizing the need for constructive dialogue.
