A suspect was taken into custody after allegedly launching a Molotov cocktail at the residence of OpenAI CEO Sam Altman and subsequently threatening to set fire to the artificial intelligence firm’s headquarters in San Francisco on Friday, according to authorities.
An OpenAI representative verified the incident in an official statement and remarked, “Fortunately, no injuries occurred.”
The San Francisco Police Department reported on X that officers responded to a blaze at Altman’s North Beach home after an individual threw an “explosive incendiary device” at around 4 a.m. The device ignited a fire on an outer gate and the suspect fled the scene on foot.
Approximately an hour later, officers were alerted to a man making arson threats at the AI company’s office, identifying him as the same suspect involved in the incident at Altman’s residence, per the report. The 20-year-old male suspect was apprehended, with charges pending.
“We are very grateful for the prompt response from SFPD and the city’s assistance in ensuring the safety of our employees,” OpenAI stated. “The suspect is in custody, and we are cooperating with law enforcement in their investigation.”
In a recent blog entry, Altman spoke about the attack and included a family photo, admitting he “underestimated the influence of words and narratives.” He described the past few years as “extremely intense, chaotic, and high-pressure,” urging for a de-escalation in “the rhetoric and tactics” within the AI sector.
“Much of the criticism aimed at our industry arises from genuine worries regarding the incredibly high stakes of this technology. This concern is entirely valid, and we welcome constructive criticism and healthy debate,” Altman expressed. “I resonate with the sentiments against technology and acknowledge that it isn’t always beneficial for everyone. However, I firmly believe that technological advancements can lead to an extraordinarily positive future for all families.”
This episode occurs during a notably contentious period for Altman and OpenAI.
In February, the organization faced backlash for finalizing an agreement with the Department of Defense after the Pentagon cut ties with AI competitor Anthropic. Activists utilized chalk to leave messages at both companies’ offices, including calls for OpenAI employees to protest the agreement.
OpenAI and Anthropic are competing for dominance in the large language model market. Their combined valuation exceeds $1 trillion in the private sector, and both companies are aiming for potential IPOs this year, despite losing billions of dollars.
In a forthcoming trial expected to begin later this month, Elon Musk is suing OpenAI and Altman, asserting that the CEO “carefully manipulated” him into contributing $38 million on the condition that OpenAI would stay a nonprofit entity. Musk, who co-founded OpenAI with Altman in 2015, is seeking to have Altman removed from his CEO position as part of the legal action.
–CNBC’s Ashley Capoot contributed to this report
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