Business

Google, Character.AI settle Florida mom’s suit over son’s suicide

January 7, 2026

Alphabet’s Google and artificial-intelligence startup Character.AI have agreed to settle a lawsuit from a Florida woman who alleged a Character chatbot led to the suicide of her 14-year-old son, according to a Wednesday court filing.

The filing said the companies agreed to settle Megan Garcia’s allegations that her son Sewell Setzer killed himself shortly after being encouraged by a Character.AI chatbot imitating “Game of Thrones” character Daenerys Targaryen.

Megan Garcia alleged that her son, Sewell Setzer, killed himself shortly after being encouraged by a Character.AI chatbot. AFP via Getty Images

Terms of the settlement were not immediately available.

The lawsuit was one of the first in the US against an AI company for allegedly failing to protect children from psychological harms.

If you are struggling with suicidal thoughts or are experiencing a mental health crisis and live in New York City, you can call 1-888-NYC-WELL for free and confidential crisis counseling.

If you live outside the five boroughs, you can dial the 24/7 National Suicide Prevention hotline at 988 or go to SuicidePreventionLifeline.org.

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Wesley Scott

Wesley Scott is a seasoned business journalist with a knack for breaking down complex financial matters and corporate trends. With a background that includes seven years working on Wall Street, Wesley brings insider knowledge to his reporting, offering readers both depth and clarity. His articles cover a wide range of topics, from market trends and corporate leadership changes to business ethics and the impact of global events on industries. Known for his ability to identify emerging patterns in the business world, Wesley’s writing serves as a reliable resource for professionals and curious readers alike. Whether covering shifts in consumer behavior or unraveling the dynamics of corporate mergers, Wesley's work ensures his audience stays ahead of the curve.