Is ChatGPT really at fault?

In my opinion blaming ChatGPT for a terror attack ignores the real and complex issues behind acts of violence. ChatGPT is a tool — it does not plan, act, or make decisions. Responsibility lies with the individual who committed the crime.

If we are going to have a serious conversation, it should focus on the broader systemic challenges in Canada — including gaps in mental health support, failures in early intervention, and laws that may not adequately address individuals in crisis before they become a danger to others.

At the same time, the role of family environment and personal upbringing cannot be ignored. The values someone is raised with, the stability (or instability) in the home, and whether warning signs are recognized and addressed early all play a major part. Radicalization, isolation, or untreated mental illness often develop over time within a social context — they do not emerge in a vacuum.

Scapegoating technology distracts from the harder but necessary discussion about prevention, accountability, family responsibility, mental health access, and whether existing legal frameworks are equipped to intervene before tragedy occurs. If the goal is to prevent future deaths, that’s where the focus belongs. We need to all take responsibility .