Suspect Taken into Custody for Reportedly Hurling Molotov Cocktail at Sam Altman’s Residence

San Francisco police apprehended an individual early Friday morning for reportedly attacking the residence of OpenAI CEO Sam Altman and issuing threats outside the company’s headquarters, a spokesperson confirmed to WIRED. OpenAI’s corporate security team informed employees about the incident on Friday.

“At approximately 3:45am PT, an unidentified individual approached Sam’s home and hurled an incendiary device toward the property. The device fell nearby and was extinguished. Fortunately, there were no injuries, and only minor damage was reported,” the message to staff states.

“Shortly thereafter, a person matching the suspect’s description was approached by security outside MB1,” the message adds, referring to OpenAI’s headquarters in San Francisco’s Mission Bay neighborhood. “This individual made threatening remarks regarding the building.”

OpenAI’s corporate security team notified staff that they are cooperating with law enforcement in the investigation and that employees may notice a heightened police and security presence around the office on Friday. The security team advised that the company’s offices remain open but urged employees to “not allow anyone to tailgate into the building.”

“Early this morning, an individual threw a Molotov cocktail at Sam Altman’s home and also made threats at our San Francisco headquarters. Thankfully, nobody was injured,” said OpenAI spokesperson Kayla Wood in an email to WIRED. “We greatly appreciate how swiftly SFPD responded and the support from the city in ensuring our employees’ safety. The individual is in custody, and we’re assisting law enforcement with their investigation.”

The San Francisco Police Department did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

This incident marks the latest in a series of threats against OpenAI’s office and staff. Last November, OpenAI secured its San Francisco office following an alleged threat from an activist. In February 2025, protesters were arrested for barricading the front doors to OpenAI’s office.