Former Boeing Whistleblower Found Dead in South Carolina

A former Boeing employee and whistleblower, John Barnett, has been discovered deceased in South Carolina, with initial reports suggesting it may have been a self-inflicted injury, according to the Charleston County Coroner’s Office.

John Barnett, a 62-year-old who had raised concerns about production defects at Boeing, had recently been providing testimony against the aircraft manufacturer in a lawsuit in Charleston.

The investigation is being handled by the Charleston City Police Department, and further details are yet to be disclosed.

Boeing expressed their condolences, stating that they are saddened by Mr. Barnett’s passing, with thoughts going out to his family and friends.

During his time at Boeing, John Barnett, hailing from Louisiana, played a crucial role in overseeing aircraft production and ensuring safety standards were met. He retired in 2017 and had been a vocal critic of Boeing’s alleged lax safety and quality standards.

The issues related to Boeing’s 737 MAX aircraft have come under intense scrutiny following two fatal crashes in recent years and a series of safety incidents, including one involving Alaska Airlines.