AI Avatar of Parkland Victim Joaquin Oliver Speaks Out on Gun Control

In a poignant and thought-provoking interview, former CNN anchor, Jim Acosta sat down with an AI-generated version of Joaquin Oliver, a 17-year-old victim of the 2018 Parkland school shooting in Florida. The conversation was part of Acosta’s independent YouTube show and aired on what would have been Oliver’s 25th birthday.

The AI avatar, created by Joaquin’s parents Manuel and Patricia, used generative artificial intelligence to reflect the teenager’s character and voice. “I was taken from this world too soon due to gun violence while at school,” the avatar said, emphasizing the importance of discussing these issues to create a safer future.

During the interview, AI Joaquin advocated for a mix of stronger gun control laws, mental health support, and community engagement. “We need to create safe spaces for conversations and connections, making sure everyone feels seen and heard,” the avatar said, highlighting the need for a culture of kindness and understanding.

Manuel Oliver, Joaquin’s father, clarified that the AI avatar wasn’t created to bring his son back but to amplify his legacy and promote gun safety awareness.

“This is just the beginning,” he said, announcing that Joaquin’s AI avatar would continue to appear in future videos.

The use of AI to recreate the speech and likeness of the deceased raises questions about the boundaries of technology and grief. While some see it as a means to keep loved ones’ memories alive, others are concerned about potential misuses, such as spreading misinformation or unethical advertising practices.

This isn’t the first time AI-generated avatars of deceased individuals have been used in public forums. In May 2025, an Arizona court heard from an AI-generated version of a man killed in a road rage incident, who delivered a message of forgiveness to his alleged killer.