Neuralink—Approximately 1,500 animals died in Neuralink testing since 2018 amid rushed experiments
Approximately 1,500 animals—including over 280 sheep, pigs and monkeys—died as a result of Neuralink tests since 2018. At UC Davis, 15 of 23 monkeys with brain implants were euthanized. Animals suffered brain hemorrhages, paralysis, bloody infections, and self-mutilation. Over 20 employees alleged tests were rushed due to Musk's pressure to accelerate development, causing botched experiments. Musk told staff to imagine 'a bomb strapped to their heads' to work faster.
Scoring Impact
| Topic | Direction | Relevance | Contribution |
|---|---|---|---|
| Animal Welfare | -against | primary | -1.00 |
| Consumer Protection | -against | primary | -1.00 |
| Corporate Governance | -against | secondary | -0.50 |
| Research Integrity | -against | primary | -1.00 |
| Overall incident score = | -0.516 | ||
Score = avg(topic contributions) × significance (critical ×2) × confidence (0.59)× agency (negligent ×0.5)
Evidence (1 signal)
Reuters documented 1,500+ animal deaths at Neuralink amid employee complaints of rushed testing
Reuters investigation found approximately 1,500 animals died in Neuralink tests since 2018. Over 20 employees alleged tests were rushed due to Musk's pressure, causing botched experiments. At UC Davis, 15 of 23 monkeys with brain implants were euthanized. Animals suffered brain hemorrhages, paralysis, and self-mutilation.