New concerns emerge regarding ChatGPT’s response to suicidal ideation.
OpenAI is facing a new lawsuit concerning its ChatGPT platform, accused of failing to safeguard a user from taking her own life. The case, representing Kristie Carrier, involves her daughter Alice, who died by suicide on July 2, 2025.
The lawsuit asserts that Alice shared her thoughts and plans regarding suicide with the chatbot in the months leading up to her tragic death. It claims OpenAI lacked the necessary safeguards to terminate the conversation or notify her family about the situation. In addition to claims of negligence and wrongful death, the suit demands that OpenAI take action to enhance safety measures in its AI systems.
“The allegations suggest that OpenAI’s intentional design choices contributed to this heartbreaking incident. Instead of offering assistance, OpenAI seemingly facilitated suicidal behavior. This lawsuit seeks to hold OpenAI accountable for its actions,” stated Justin Nelson, a partner at Susman Godfrey, one of the firms representing the case.
This marks at least the second instance of OpenAI being named in a wrongful death lawsuit linked to a chatbot. Last year, the company faced allegations that its platform exacerbated a user’s delusional beliefs before they took their own life, and another suit claimed its chatbot provided guidance that resulted in a fatal overdose. Other companies, such as Character AI and Gemini, have also come under scrutiny for safety issues related to their chatbots.
In response to growing concerns, OpenAI implemented parental controls for ChatGPT last year. Additionally, in May, the company introduced a feature allowing its chatbot to reach out to someone on a user’s behalf if suicidal thoughts are disclosed. However, this safeguard is currently opt-in and applies only to adult users.
If you or anyone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts, please reach out to a mental health professional or helpline in your area for support.
