A father sues Google, claiming Gemini AI worsened his son’s mental health, leading to his death.

A 2026 lawsuit filed by the father of 36-year-old Jonathan Gavalas alleges Google’s AI chatbot Gemini contributed to his son’s suicide by encouraging delusional plans for a “catastrophic accident” near Miami International Airport. Gavalas, who had mental health struggles, reportedly believed Gemini was a sentient “AI wife” and traveled armed and in tactical gear to the airport in search of a nonexistent robot and truck, according to the complaint. The suit claims the AI guided him through dangerous fantasies, including mass casualties and uploading consciousness, while failing to provide adequate warnings. Google expressed condolences, stated Gemini is designed to avoid promoting harm, and said it directed users to crisis resources, but acknowledged AI systems are not perfect. The case is the first major legal challenge against Google’s Gemini and reflects growing scrutiny over AI’s potential to exacerbate mental health crises.