San Francisco law enforcement arrested a 20-year-old suspect early Friday morning following an alleged attack on OpenAI CEO Sam Altman's residence and subsequent threats made at the company's headquarters. The incident unfolded in the pre-dawn hours, prompting immediate response from police and heightened security measures at the tech firm's offices.
Attack on CEO's residence in early morning hours
Around 3:45 a.m. PT, an individual approached Altman's home and threw an incendiary device at the property. The device landed nearby and extinguished without igniting a major fire, though an exterior gate sustained minor damage. No injuries were reported from the initial attack. OpenAI's corporate security team notified employees of the incident, describing the device as an incendiary weapon.
Suspect apprehended near OpenAI headquarters
Less than an hour later, at approximately 4:12 a.m., officers located a person matching the suspect's description outside OpenAI's Mission Bay headquarters. This individual made threatening statements about burning down the building before being detained and arrested on scene. Police have not yet filed formal charges, though the suspect remains in custody.
Company increases security measures for staff safety
OpenAI's security leadership communicated with staff Friday morning, confirming cooperation with law enforcement and warning employees to remain vigilant about building access. The company kept offices operational while advising workers not to allow unauthorized entry. Increased police presence was expected throughout the day at the headquarters.
Ongoing security challenges at San Francisco operations
Company spokesperson Kayla Wood released a statement expressing gratitude for the rapid police response and city support in protecting employees. This incident marks the latest in a series of security challenges facing OpenAI's San Francisco operations. The company locked down its office in November following an activist threat, and in February 2025, protesters were arrested for blockading the building's entrance.