A man allegedly threw a Molotov cocktail at Sam Altman's house

Source: Engadget

Incident

A 20‑year‑old man was arrested by the San Francisco Police Department after allegedly throwing a Molotov cocktail at OpenAI CEO Sam Altman’s house, according to The New York Times.

The SFPD responded to a fire‑investigation request in San Francisco’s North Beach neighborhood around 7:12 a.m. ET (4:12 a.m. PT). Officers reported that an “unknown male subject” threw an incendiary device at a home, igniting a fire at an exterior gate. The suspect fled on foot but was apprehended about an hour later while police were responding to a separate complaint of an “unknown male subject threatening to burn down the building.” That complaint originated from OpenAI’s headquarters, and the individual arrested was the same person who threw the Molotov cocktail at Altman’s residence.

Statements

“Early this morning, someone threw a Molotov cocktail at Sam Altman’s home and also made threats at our San Francisco headquarters. Thankfully, no one was hurt.” – OpenAI spokesperson, Wired

“View our latest statement regarding an incident that occurred early this morning at a North Beach residence. Officers have made an arrest, and no injuries were reported as a result of this incident.” – San Francisco Police Department (tweet, April 10 2026)

The OpenAI spokesperson added that the company is assisting law enforcement with the investigation and expressed appreciation for the rapid response by the SFPD and city officials.

Background

Artificial intelligence has become increasingly divisive as its adoption expands across gaming, customer service, and other sectors. Public reaction to AI’s growing presence is often negative, especially concerning potential impacts on employment. Altman’s warnings about AI’s effect on jobs, along with a recent New Yorker investigation into his leadership style at OpenAI, have intensified scrutiny of his role as a steward of the technology.