Las Vegas AI CEO receives disturbing package after television interview
Bizarre incident highlights tensions over artificial intelligence in real estate
A Las Vegas technology executive received an unusual and disturbing delivery last month that has caught the attention of local police — a bloodied pig’s head accompanied by an anonymous letter warning about the role of artificial intelligence in real estate.
Blake Owens, the 29-year-old founder and CEO of Agrippa, an AI-powered commercial real estate platform, discovered the gruesome package on July 29. The delivery appeared to be in response to an 8 News Now interview Owens gave in June discussing his company’s use of AI in facilitating real estate transactions.
“Perhaps this person watched too much of The Godfather,” Owens told 8 News Now, referencing the famous movie scene. “Needless to say, I still take it very seriously, but don’t feel like I’m being truly threatened. It was a message.”
The letter’s message
The package included a letter that suggested the sender may be concerned about job displacement due to artificial intelligence. The anonymous author, who signed only with the initial “M,” wrote: “‘AI’ is not going to replace brokers. Clearly, you don’t understand real estate was built by developer or investors.”
Despite the disturbing nature of the delivery, Owens maintained a philosophical perspective on the incident, suggesting the sender might be struggling with the rapid changes technology is bringing to the industry.
AI’s growing presence in Las Vegas
Owens’ company, Agrippa, operates as a broker-free platform that uses AI to match commercial real estate capital seekers with investors. The company recently made headlines when it facilitated a $45 million land deal for the Eastside Cannery property using its AI tool called “Marcus.”
The technology sector’s influence in Las Vegas extends beyond real estate. MGM Resorts, Nevada’s largest employer, recently announced the implementation of 70 to 80 new AI programs across various departments. Additionally, the Otonomous Hotel, which opened July 1, has embraced AI-powered services and recently hosted international dignitaries from El Salvador.
A message of understanding
Rather than responding with anger, Owens expressed empathy for the anonymous sender. “I don’t want to punch down on this person — they may be in a tough spot in life,” he said. “I do see this as an opportunity to show people you don’t become a better person by making another man a lesser person.”
Owens emphasized that his goal isn’t to replace human workers but to help professionals in commercial real estate embrace AI as a tool. He cited Winston Churchill’s philosophy that “to be perfect is to change often,” adding that resistance to technological advancement could leave people behind.
“Everyone is trying to bring AI to the forefront, and it sheds some light on how great this city is and what we can do with the talent we have here,” Owens said. “May ruffle some feathers in the process, but in the long run, I think that it’s the best thing to do.”
The Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department is currently investigating the incident.
Image Sources: https://www.8newsnow.com/news/local-news/las-vegas-realtor-receives-bloodied-pigs-head-letter-after-ai-deal/
Category: Local News, Technology
Subcategory: AI and Innovation
Date: 08/06/2025
