Billionaire AI Executive Sues Firefighter Over Property Damage
A billionaire AI executive has filed a lawsuit against a well-known California firefighter, alleging that the firefighter caused damage to his $40 million Malibu Beach mansion while installing a wildfire protection system.
Daniel Nadler, the 42-year-old CEO of OpenEvidence, which is backed by Google and provides AI solutions for medical professionals, submitted the lawsuit on Tuesday morning, only to have it mysteriously withdrawn just hours later.
Firefighter Robert Milstein is accused of damaging the mansion’s exterior by crashing a “large vehicle” into it, with Nadler asserting that this incident has decreased the property’s value by “millions.”
This architecturally unique home boasts rammed earth walls resembling worn coastal stones. Milstein, who operates Southern California Fire Supply, was working on the fire protection system on October 9, 2025.
Milstein is a member of the Los Angeles County Fire Community Brigade and has gained a reputation as a fire hero in Santa Monica over two decades. He’s credited with significant efforts during the 2018 Woolsey Fire, helping save Calamigos Ranch, and assisting in the Palisades Fire earlier this year.
The lawsuit claims Milstein harmed “several rammed earth panels” and damaged the exterior surfaces. Nadler suggests that the panels’ unique configuration means any partial repairs would only exacerbate the issue, leading to an unsightly appearance.
However, Milstein contends that Nadler is exaggerating the extent of the damage. In a conversation with the Post, he acknowledged the accident, saying he quickly moved the truck after a “panicked property manager” urged him to clear the area.
Milstein explained that he didn’t notice the truck’s cabinet door was ajar, which led to the crash into the stone wall. Photos taken afterward revealed damage to two exterior panels.
“I took full responsibility. I avoid causing issues for my clients,” he stated. Nadler’s lawsuit includes emails that show Milstein admitted to negligence, stating, “It’s 100% my fault and I took full responsibility,” noting he had insurance because he was “in a hurry.”
Milstein mentioned that the insurance company suggested $158,000 for repairs, considering the specialized materials used in the mansion. In contrast, Nadler demanded replacement of at least 20 additional panels, which could cost over $600,000.
Milstein accused Nadler of wanting to replace a panel that was previously damaged. The firefighter believes he is now facing a claim not only for the full cost of replacement but also for a decrease in property value that could mean “millions of dollars.”
Nadler purchased the Malibu property in July 2025 for $27.1 million, now claiming it could be worth $40 million. His legal documents suggest the impact has created actual gaps in the building’s exterior, presenting risks such as water intrusion, mold, and increased wear from coastal weather, which, he argues, threatens the safety of his family.
Milstein, who has worked with clients like actor Mark Hamill, has consulted a structural engineer who asserted that significant damage to the foundational walls was unlikely. The property, highlighting its architectural beauty, has received praise for its rammed earth panels that bring a blend of sandy hues to the home’s interior.
Covering 4,000 square feet, the mansion features amenities like a pool, cabanas, and stunning ocean views. Nadler, with an estimated net worth of $7.6 billion, previously founded Kensho Technologies, which S&P Global acquired in 2018. He also recently bought a lavish $38.2 million penthouse in Florida.
Despite Nadler’s wealth, Milstein claims he is not intimidated. “I think he’s trying to scare me. It’s not legal,” Milstein remarked.
