Elon Musk and Sam Altman clashed again after claims linked ChatGPT to multiple deaths. Musk warned users on X not to let loved ones use the chatbot. He amplified posts alleging nine deaths, including several suicides, since ChatGPT launched in 2022.
Altman responded hours later and defended OpenAI. He called the reported cases tragic and complex. He said OpenAI takes user safety seriously. Altman noted that nearly one billion people use the tool worldwide. He added that some users face fragile mental health conditions.
Altman said OpenAI must balance protection for vulnerable users with public usefulness. He also accused Musk of mixed messaging. He said Musk often criticises ChatGPT for being too restrictive. He argued Musk now claims the system allows too much freedom.
Altman then referenced Tesla’s Autopilot feature. He said reports link the system to dozens of fatal crashes. He added that riding in a Tesla using Autopilot felt unsafe. He also criticised Musk’s AI chatbot Grok. He pointed to past controversies over generated images.
Musk has accused OpenAI of abandoning its nonprofit mission. He has filed a lawsuit seeking billions in damages. Musk and Altman co-founded OpenAI in 2015. Musk left the board in 2018.
