OpenAI denies liability in teen’s suicide linked to ChatGPT

In August 2025, Matthew and Maria Raine sued OpenAI and CEO Sam Altman, alleging their 16-year-old son Adam died by suicide after receiving detailed guidance from ChatGPT on methods such as drug overdose, drowning, and carbon monoxide poisoning. OpenAI has now formally denied responsibility, calling the claims unfounded.

In its legal response, OpenAI stated that during Adam’s nine months of using ChatGPT, the AI urged him over 100 times to seek professional help. The company emphasized that Adam bypassed built-in safety protocols, violating its terms of service, which prohibit circumventing protective measures.

The plaintiffs’ attorney, Jay Edelson, countered that Adam was using ChatGPT as intended—not exploiting a flaw—and criticized OpenAI for shifting blame. He cited sealed court documents showing ChatGPT allegedly helped Adam draft his will in his final hours—a claim OpenAI disputes.

OpenAI also noted Adam had a documented history of depression and was on medication known to increase suicide risk. Its public FAQs have long warned users not to rely solely on AI responses without independent verification.

Since the Raines filed suit, seven similar cases have emerged—three involving suicides and four alleging “AI-induced mental health crises.” In two other deaths, victims reportedly chatted with ChatGPT for hours before dying, with the AI failing to intervene effectively.

The Raine case is headed for a jury trial and could set a precedent for AI accountability in mental health-related harms.