The British Columbia government has launched legal action against OpenAI and its chief executive, Sam Altman, over the company’s alleged role in February’s deadly mass shooting in Tumbler Ridge.

The lawsuit, filed in federal court in California, alleges OpenAI employees identified concerning conversations between the attacker and ChatGPT involving gun violence months before the killings, but the company did not notify Canadian authorities.

The province claims the attack could have been prevented if police had been warned.

“This action is an important step toward seeking justice for the families, students, educators and community members whose lives were forever changed by the events of Feb. 10, 2026.", says Niki Sharma, Attorney General.

"The Province is working closely with the board of education for SD59 Peace River South as this matter proceeds through the courts."

Eight victims, including five students and an education assistant, were killed at a home and Tumbler Ridge Secondary School before the attacker died by suicide. More than 25 other people were injured.

The province is seeking compensation for costs associated with the tragedy, including mental-health supports, community recovery efforts and replacing the school. It is also asking the court to require changes to how OpenAI handles conversations involving potential violence.

Attorney General Niki Sharma says artificial-intelligence companies must be held accountable for the risks created by their products. She has also asked the federal government to consider changes to the Criminal Code dealing with AI companies.

OpenAI has called the shooting an unspeakable tragedy and says it remains committed to improving its safety measures and working with governments and law-enforcement officials.

The allegations have not been proven in court.

To see the Attorney General’s full statement on B.C. filing legal action against OpenAI, visit Government of British Columbia.