Canada Pushes OpenAI for Stronger Safety Measures After Shooting
Ottawa Confronts OpenAI Over Safety Protocols
Canada’s federal government has challenged OpenAI over its response to the Tumbler Ridge mass shooting earlier this month. Ministers summoned OpenAI’s senior safety team to Ottawa to discuss the company’s internal policies on escalating online threats. The meeting followed revelations about the shooter’s interactions with ChatGPT that did not trigger a referral to law enforcement before the tragedy.
Artificial Intelligence Minister Evan Solomon said officials were left disappointed after the first talks. He said OpenAI did not present substantial new safety measures, but promised to return with more concrete proposals. Police and government leaders want clearer protocols for assessing and reporting potential threats detected by AI platforms.
Shooter Evaded Ban With Second ChatGPT Account
OpenAI revealed that the shooter, identified as Jesse Van Rootselaar, managed to evade a ban on ChatGPT by creating a second account. The banned account had been flagged in June 2025 after violating usage policies, but it was not referred to police at the time because it did not meet the company’s threshold for an “imminent and credible” threat. OpenAI shared the second account with law enforcement only after the shooter’s identity became public following the attack.
OpenAI has since committed to strengthening its detection systems to better prevent banned users from returning and to identify high-risk behaviour more effectively. The company also said it would revise its protocols for reporting concerning activity to police, including establishing a direct point of contact with Canadian law enforcement.
Calls for Clearer Reporting Standards
Officials from both the federal government and David Eby said the incident highlighted gaps in current safety frameworks for digital platforms. Premier Eby said the situation underlined the need for transparent thresholds that protect user privacy while ensuring public safety. Discussions include possible legislative changes that could require AI companies to report certain types of online behaviour.
Cybersecurity law experts have noted regulating AI firms is complex. They say creating clear standards for when tech companies should notify authorities about user activity will require careful legal and technical planning.
Enhancing Cooperation and Next Steps
OpenAI has expressed its commitment to cooperation with the Royal Canadian Mounted Police and Canadian governments. In a letter from Ann O’Leary, OpenAI’s vice-president of global policy, the company detailed its plans to improve safety protocols and law enforcement referrals going forward. These include updated systems involving mental health and behavioural experts to help assess potential risks.
Government officials say they will continue conversations with OpenAI and other tech companies to define clearer safety standards. They stressed that ensuring Canadians’ safety is a priority as artificial intelligence becomes more integrated into daily life and online platforms.
