Tumbler Ridge suspect's ChatGPT account banned before shooting

Source: BBC Technology

Background

OpenAI banned a ChatGPT account owned by the suspect of a mass shooting in British Columbia more than half a year before the attack took place. The AI company identified the account belonging to Jesse Van Rootselaar in June 2025 through its abuse and enforcement detection systems, which flag accounts used to further violence.

OpenAI said it did not alert authorities at the time because the usage did not meet its threshold for a credible or imminent plan of serious physical harm. After the attack, the company “proactively” contacted Canadian police with information on the suspect.

OpenAI’s response

In a statement, an OpenAI spokesperson said:

“In June 2025, we proactively identified an account associated with this individual [Jesse Van Rootselaar] via our abuse detection and enforcement efforts, which include automated tools and human investigations to identify misuses of our models in furtherance of violent activities.”

The company added that it will continue to support the police investigation.

OpenAI maintains a policy of alerting authorities only in cases of imminent risk, arguing that broader alerts could cause unintended harm. It trains ChatGPT to discourage imminent real‑world harm and to refuse assistance for illegal activities. The firm is reviewing its referral criteria with experts and is examining this case for possible improvements.

Media reporting

The story was first reported by the Wall Street Journal. According to the outlet, “about a dozen staffers debated whether to take action on Van Rootselaar’s posts.” Some staff identified the suspect’s use of the AI tool as an indication of real‑world violence and urged leaders to alert authorities, but company leaders ultimately decided not to do so.

Details of the attack

• Date and location: 12 February, rural Tumbler Ridge, British Columbia.
• Casualties: Eight people were shot and killed; a further 27 were injured.
• Perpetrator: Jesse Van Rootselaar, who was later found dead from a self‑inflicted gunshot wound at the school. Police said the suspect was born biologically male but identified as a woman.
• Victims: Van Rootselaar’s mother and step‑brother were among those killed; both were found dead at a local residence.

The motive for the attack remains unknown.

The BBC has contacted the Royal Canadian Mounted Police for comment.