Federal authorities have filed serious charges against a 20-year-old Texas resident accused of carrying out a dangerous firebomb attack on the home of OpenAI CEO Sam Altman in San Francisco early Friday morning.
Daniel Moreno-Gama, from Spring, Texas, now faces multiple state charges including attempted murder, attempted arson, and possession of destructive devices, along with additional federal explosives and firearms charges, according to court documents and statements from law enforcement officials.
The alleged attack occurred when Moreno-Gama allegedly threw a Molotov cocktail at an exterior gate of Altman's residence. While the gate sustained fire damage, no one was injured in the incident.
Escalation at Company Headquarters
Following the initial attack, prosecutors say Moreno-Gama proceeded to OpenAI's headquarters in San Francisco, where he allegedly used a chair to strike glass doors while making threats. According to an FBI affidavit, Moreno-Gama claimed to security personnel that he came to the facility to "burn it down and kill anyone inside."
When arrested, law enforcement recovered multiple incendiary devices, a jug of kerosene, and a lighter from Moreno-Gama's possession, the affidavit states.
Evidence Points to Premeditation
Federal prosecutors revealed that San Francisco Police discovered a document allegedly written by Moreno-Gama in which he claimed responsibility for the attack on Altman. The document reportedly encouraged others to commit similar acts and contained a list of other artificial intelligence company executives, board members, and investors, raising concerns about broader targeting.
The discovery led to an FBI raid on Moreno-Gama's Texas residence on Monday, conducted in coordination with local and federal partners. FBI Director Kash Patel confirmed the operation on social media, crediting agents and intelligence teams for their rapid coordination.
Severe Legal Consequences
If convicted on state charges, Moreno-Gama faces a potential sentence of 19 years to life in prison, according to San Francisco District Attorney Brooke Jenkins. Federal explosives convictions carry a mandatory minimum of five years and maximum of 20 years, while federal weapons possession charges could result in up to 10 years, along with potential fines and supervised release.
Moreno-Gama made his initial appearance in state court Tuesday and awaits scheduling for his first federal court appearance. He remains in state custody in California.
This report is based on information provided by CBS News and federal law enforcement sources.