Sam Altman arson suspect remains in custody as mental health report filed

July 8, 2026 - 20:39

A man accused of setting a fire at the home of OpenAI CEO Sam Altman remains in custody after a mental health evaluation was filed in court. Daniel Moreno Gama, 24, appeared before a judge on Tuesday where the report was entered into the record. According to court documents, the evaluation found Gama eligible for mental health diversion, a program that could redirect his case away from traditional criminal prosecution and toward treatment.

The suspect has been held without bail since his arrest in early March. Authorities say he broke into Altman's San Francisco residence and started a fire that caused significant damage but no injuries. Gama faces charges of arson, burglary, and vandalism. His attorney has argued that his client suffers from severe mental illness and needs treatment, not prison.

Prosecutors have not yet agreed to the diversion plan. They are seeking to keep Gama in custody, citing the seriousness of the alleged crime and the high-profile nature of the victim. The next hearing is scheduled for next month, where a judge will decide whether to accept the mental health recommendation or proceed with the criminal case. Gama remains in jail pending that decision.