Boeing Whistleblower Found Dead by Suicide, Police Confirm
The investigation into the tragic death of Boeing whistleblower John Barnett has concluded with police confirming that Barnett died by suicide. The 62-year-old former quality manager, who had raised significant safety concerns about Boeing’s manufacturing practices, was found dead on March 9 in a vehicle in Charleston, South Carolina.
Barnett’s death was discovered during a welfare check initiated after he failed to attend a deposition related to his lawsuit against Boeing, in which he alleged illegal retaliation. Officers found Barnett in the driver’s seat of a truck in a Holiday Inn parking lot, with a handgun and a note indicating severe personal distress.
Barnett’s lawyers, Robert Turkewitz and Brian Knowles expressed disbelief at his suicide, noting he appeared in good spirits during his deposition. They called for a thorough investigation by the Charleston Police Department, which concluded on Friday. The coroner’s report confirmed Barnett died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound, and evidence indicated he had been experiencing serious personal distress.
The police released an image of a note found in the vehicle, containing disparaging messages about Boeing. They extended their sympathies to Barnett’s family, emphasizing the loss of his life amid the investigation’s closure.
Boeing has yet to comment on the investigation’s findings. In March, the company expressed sadness over Barnett’s death, stating, “Our thoughts are with his family and friends.”
Barnett, a long-time Boeing employee, had publicly criticized the company’s safety standards, specifically highlighting dangerous wiring clusters that could potentially cause catastrophic aircraft failures. His revelations brought significant scrutiny to Boeing’s manufacturing processes. In response to his allegations, Boeing’s 787 program general manager, Brad Zaback, claimed Barnett’s concerns painted an inaccurate picture of the company’s quality standards.
Since Barnett’s warnings, Boeing has faced multiple safety issues, including a recent incident involving a 737 Max. The U.S. Justice Department announced potential criminal prosecution against Boeing this week, citing the company’s history of safety lapses.