Tragic Loss: Former Boeing Whistleblower Found Deceased in Charleston

A former Boeing employee who had raised concerns about the company’s production standards was found dead in Charleston, South Carolina. The Charleston County Coroner’s Office reported that John Barnett, 62, passed away on March 9 from what seems to be a self-inflicted gunshot wound. The city’s police department is currently investigating the case and waiting for the formal cause of death. They are also looking into any additional findings that could provide more insight into the circumstances surrounding Mr. Barnett’s death.

Statement from John's lawyers provided to CNN reveals that he was in the middle of a deposition for his whistleblower retaliation case, which was coming to a close. He was feeling positive and eager to move on from this chapter of his life. There were no signs that he was contemplating taking his own life. His sudden passing has left us all in shock and disbelief. We are devastated and seeking more information on what transpired. It is crucial for the Charleston police to conduct a thorough investigation and share their findings with the public. Every detail must be carefully examined.

According to his family speaking to NPR, the case was set to go to trial in June. Barnett was looking forward to his day in court, hoping that it would bring about a change in Boeing's culture.

Barnett's attorneys, Robert Turkewitz and Brian Knowles, described him as a courageous and honest man with high integrity. They emphasized his love for his family, friends, Boeing company, co-workers, pilots, and passengers who flew on Boeing aircraft. They praised his sincere and forthright character.

According to a police incident report, officers were called to a Holiday Inn in Charleston for a welfare check before 10:20 am on Saturday. Upon arrival, they discovered Barnett in a truck in the parking lot with a gunshot wound to the head. He was found holding a handgun and was pronounced dead at the scene.

The police report mentioned finding a piece of paper next to him that appeared to be a note.

The incident report mentioned that a person named "Rob" called the hotel and asked for a welfare check on his coworker John Barnett. This led hotel staff to the truck in the parking lot.

Barnett was in Charleston for legal interviews and was scheduled for additional questioning on Saturday. However, he was found dead after failing to appear.

Boeing expressed their sadness over Barnett's passing and extended their condolences to his family and friends when asked for a comment about his death by the BBC.

The Charleston police stated that they are aware of the international attention the case has received. They emphasized the importance of ensuring that the investigation is based on facts and evidence rather than speculation. Due to the sensitivity of the case, the department is currently not participating in media interviews. This is a standard procedure followed to maintain the integrity of ongoing investigations.

According to a 2019 New York Times report referenced by CNN, Barnett, a former quality manager with years of experience at Boeing, had come across clusters of metal slivers hanging over the wiring that controls the flight systems.

Barnett warned the Times that if the sharp slivers were to pierce the wiring, it could lead to a catastrophic outcome.

"As a quality manager at Boeing, you play a crucial role in preventing defects from reaching the passengers," Barnett explained to the Times. "I have yet to come across a plane from Charleston that I would confidently say is safe and ready for flight."

In a message sent to the employees of the plant and shared with CNN, Brad Zaback, the site leader at the plant and general manager of the 787 program, expressed his disagreement with the report published by the Times. He mentioned that the report presented a one-sided and inaccurate view of the program and the team at the plant.

Zaback also mentioned that the Times had been invited to visit the plant but declined. He emphasized that quality is a fundamental value for their team and that they consistently deliver top-quality airplanes.

Editor's P/S:

The tragic death of John Barnett, the Boeing whistleblower, casts a somber shadow over the aviation industry. His concerns about production standards raised red flags about the safety of Boeing aircraft, leading to an investigation and a whistleblower retaliation case. Barnett's untimely passing, just as the case neared its end, raises questions about potential foul play or undue pressure that may have led to his demise. The note found with him and the circumstances surrounding his death warrant a thorough examination by the Charleston police.

Barnett's courage in speaking out highlights the importance of whistleblower protection. His actions demonstrated his unwavering commitment to ensuring the safety of the flying public. Boeing's response to the Times report and its emphasis on quality are crucial aspects of the case. The company's reputation and the trust of its customers hinge on its ability to maintain the highest standards of safety and transparency. The ongoing investigation must shed light on any potential systemic issues within Boeing and ensure that whistleblowers are protected from retribution. The public deserves to know the truth behind Barnett's death and the measures taken to address the concerns he raised.