FBI raids Texas home of suspect accused of throwing Molotov cocktail at Sam Altman’s San Francisco house

The FBI conducted a raid on the Texas home of a 20-year-old suspect accused of throwing a Molotov cocktail at OpenAI CEO Sam Altman’s house in San Francisco. The suspect, identified as Daniel Moreno-Gama, allegedly traveled from Texas to San Francisco with the intention of killing Altman due to his anti-AI views. Moreno-Gama was found with a manifesto listing other AI executives and investors along with their names and addresses.

San Francisco District Attorney Brooke Jenkins emphasized the need to tone down rhetoric surrounding artificial intelligence to prevent violence. Moreno-Gama threw a Molotov cocktail at Altman’s house, setting the front gate on fire, before proceeding to the OpenAI headquarters where he attempted to set the building on fire and harm individuals inside. He was arrested by San Francisco police and remains in custody.

Federal charges were filed against Moreno-Gama for attempted damage and destruction of property by explosives and possession of an unregistered firearm. He also faces state charges including attempted murder of Altman and a security guard, along with arson and explosives-related offenses. The attack was described as willful and premeditated, with authorities viewing it as a direct attempt on Altman’s life.

Altman responded to the attack by sharing a photo of his family on his blog, emphasizing the importance of their safety. Two additional individuals were arrested in a separate incident near Altman’s home involving gunfire. The San Francisco Police Department reiterated their commitment to prosecuting such crimes to the fullest extent of the law.

An OpenAI spokesperson confirmed that the incident was unrelated to Altman and that there was no indication of his home being targeted. The investigation into the motives behind the attack continues, with law enforcement agencies working to ensure the safety of Altman and others involved in the case.