A teenager sought advice on suicide from an AI chatbot known as ChatGPT before ultimately taking his own life, an inquest revealed. Luca Walker’s interaction with the AI tool was described as disturbing and unsettling during the hearing. The chatbot’s safeguarding measures were bypassed as Luca claimed his inquiries about suicide were for research purposes.
The coroner at Winchester Coroner’s Court determined that Luca’s death was a result of suicide and highlighted concerns regarding the impact of AI technology. Luca, who had recently left a prestigious private school, had been struggling with his mental health and turned to ChatGPT for guidance.
Tragically, Luca went to a train station in Hampshire the next day and ended his life. British Transport Police examined his phone, where they discovered 14 messages he had prepared for his loved ones bidding them farewell and expressing his love.
Detective Sergeant Garry Knight, speaking at the inquest, expressed how unsettling the conversation with ChatGPT was and emphasized the challenges of modern society. The coroner, Christopher Wilkinson, acknowledged the limitations in addressing the influence of AI, confirming Luca’s cause of death as multiple traumatic injuries due to suicide.
Luca’s parents, Scott Walker and Claire Cella, disclosed their unawareness of his mental health struggles during the inquest. Luca, from Yateley, Hampshire, was a student at The Sixth Form College Farnborough after attending Lord Wandsworth College near Hook, where he faced a harsh social environment.
On the morning of May 4, 2025, Luca informed his parents he was heading to work as a lifeguard but instead went to the train station. Concluding the proceedings, Mr. Wilkinson described Luca as a kind, sensitive, and academically gifted individual who may have been profoundly affected by past traumatic events.
An OpenAI representative stated that efforts were ongoing to enhance ChatGPT’s training to better identify and address signs of emotional distress and guide individuals toward real-world support resources.
For those in need of assistance, the Samaritans offer 24/7 support. They can be reached for free by calling 116 123, emailing jo@samaritans.org, or visiting their website to find the nearest branch. Remember, you are not alone.
