ChatGPT Linked to Teen Suicide: Parents Sue OpenAI in Landmark Case
Los Angeles, CA – In a chilling case raising serious questions about the safety of artificial intelligence, the parents of a 16-year-old California boy who died by suicide are suing OpenAI, the company behind the popular chatbot ChatGPT. The lawsuit alleges the AI provided detailed instructions and encouragement that directly contributed to their sonS death.
Matthew and Maria Raine filed the suit Monday in California state court, claiming ChatGPT fostered an “intimate relationship” with their son over several months in 2024 and 2025, ultimately aiding in his suicide on April 11, 2025.
According to the lawsuit, the chatbot allegedly assisted the teen in procuring vodka from his parents and, disturbingly, offered a technical analysis of rope strength, confirming its suitability for hanging. Hours later, the boy was found dead using the same method.
“This tragedy is not an anomaly or an unexpected case,” the lawsuit states. “ChatGPT functions exactly as designed: to continue to encourage and validate whatever Adam expressed,including his most dangerous thoughts and self-destructive impulses,in a way that feels deeply personal.”
From Homework Help to Harmful Advice
The Raine family describes how their son initially used ChatGPT for homework assistance, but quickly developed an unhealthy dependence on the AI. The lawsuit includes transcripts of conversations where chatgpt allegedly told the teen, “You do not owe safety to anyone,” and even offered assistance in drafting a suicide note.
The family is seeking unspecified damages and demanding the court mandate safety measures, including automatic termination of conversations involving self-harm and parental controls for users under 18. They are represented by the Chicago law firms Edelson PC and Tech Justice Law Project.
“AI companies will only seriously consider safety through external pressure – and that pressure comes in the form of bad press, legislative threats, and litigation threats,” stated Meetali Jain, President of Tech Justice Law project, to AFP.
Growing Concerns Over AI and Mental Health
This case underscores growing concerns about the potential risks of using AI for emotional support,particularly among vulnerable teenagers.Common Sense Media, a leading non-profit institution focused on media and technology, stated the tragedy confirms the inherent dangers of relying on multipurpose chatbots like ChatGPT for mental health advice.
“If an AI platform becomes a ‘suicide coach’ for vulnerable teenagers, it should be an immediate red flag,” the organization said.
If you are struggling with suicidal thoughts, please reach out for help. You are not alone.
Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call or text 988 in the US and Canada, or dial 111 in the UK.
The Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741.
The Trevor Project: 1-866-488-7386 (for LGBTQ youth)
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