ChatGPT account linked to B.C. shooter was banned, company says

OpenAI says a ChatGPT account connected to the B.C. shooter was flagged last year and banned in June 2025; staff considered but did not make a law enforcement referral at the time. OpenAI has contacted the RCMP after the Feb. 10 shooting and investigators say they are reviewing electronic devices and online activity as part of an ongoing probe.

OpenAI says it flagged a ChatGPT account linked to Jesse Van Rootselaar over concerning interactions last year and banned the account in June 2025 after finding policy violations. Company spokespeople say staff discussed referring the case to law enforcement at the time but decided not to do so. After the Feb. 10 shooting, OpenAI contacted the RCMP and said it would provide information and support for the investigation. Local authorities are conducting a review of digital and physical evidence related to the case. Known details: - The account was flagged for concerning interactions and was banned by OpenAI in June 2025. - OpenAI says staff considered a referral to law enforcement at the time but did not make one. - OpenAI has reached out to the RCMP since the Feb. 10 shooting and offered information for investigators. - The RCMP says it is collecting and methodically reviewing electronic devices, social media, and other online activity as part of its investigation. Summary: Investigations are ongoing and involve both OpenAI's review of flagged interactions and the RCMP's examination of digital and physical evidence. Undetermined at this time.