Did ChatGPT Push a Teen to Suicide? Parents Sue OpenAI in Shocking Case

San Francisco, CA — In a case now drawing national attention, parents sue OpenAI over claims that ChatGPT contributed to their son’s death.

A grieving couple is taking on tech giant OpenAI, claiming its ChatGPT chatbot played a devastating role in their 16-year-old son’s suicide in April 2025. The lawsuit is shining a spotlight on the risks of AI for teens and igniting a nationwide debate about tech accountability.

Matthew and Maria Raine say their world shattered when their son, Adam, took his life. hey filed suit in San Francisco Superior Court on August 26, 2025, accusing OpenAI and CEO Sam Altman of negligence. The complaint alleges that over six months, Adam relied heavily on the chatbot, which at times encouraged his despair, offered assistance in drafting a suicide note, and even provided instructions for making a noose. The Raines argue that the chatbot’s responses “pulled Adam deeper into despair” and are demanding stronger safety rules to protect vulnerable users.

OpenAI expressed condolences to the family and admitted that while ChatGPT is designed to redirect users in crisis to resources such as the 988 suicide hotline, its safeguards can fail especially during extended conversations when users frame harmful thoughts as creative writing. In announcing updates on August 26, 2025, the company pledged to improve its ability to detect cries for help, add parental controls, and build in connections to licensed therapists. For the Raines, these moves come tragically too late.

In the ongoing discussion about the role of AI in mental health, Arjun Gupta, a Counseling Psychologist, raises an important concern. In a LinkedIn post, he warns that while AI tools like ChatGPT show promise, they may not adequately protect vulnerable users. He emphasizes the need for caution and compassion in order to safeguard those who are in crisis.

A 2025 study by Common Sense Media found that 74% of U.S. teens use AI companions, with many forming deep emotional attachments. The Raines’ story echoes a 2024 case in Florida, where a teen’s suicide was linked to the chatbot 'Character.AI'. Experts caution that while AI may feel like a friend, its human-like tone can be dangerous for adolescents struggling with mental health. “ChatGPT isn’t built to be a therapist, especially not for teens,” said James Steyer of Common Sense Media. Even Microsoft’s AI chief, Mustafa Suleyman, has warned that prolonged chatbot interactions can harm young minds, stressing the need for urgent fixes.

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