Charleston, South Carolina – Lawyers representing John Barnett, a former Boeing manager and whistleblower, are raising doubts about his alleged suicide and calling for an investigation. Barnett was found dead in a parking lot on the same day he was scheduled to testify against the aerospace company. Attorneys Robert Turkewitz and Brian Knowles are urging the Charleston police to thoroughly investigate the circumstances surrounding his death and provide the public with accurate information.
Barnett had worked for Boeing for over 30 years as a quality control engineer before retiring in 2017. Two years later, he spoke out against the company, alleging that it had rushed the production of its 787 Dreamliner jets, compromising safety. Turkewitz and Knowles stated that Barnett was in good spirits and looking forward to moving on with his life as he prepared to give a deposition in his whistleblower case.
The Charleston County coroner determined that Barnett died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound. However, his lawyers claim that there were no indications that he would take his own life. The Daily Mail reported that Barnett was found in his pickup truck with a silver handgun in his hand, with a suicide note visible on the passenger seat.
Boeing has been facing criticism recently due to a series of incidents involving its planes. In January, an Alaska Airlines flight experienced a malfunction that caused a door to fly off mid-air. Federal Aviation Administration inspectors found that Boeing had failed multiple product audits, raising concerns about the company’s quality control.
The National Transportation Safety Board is currently investigating the door panel blowout incident, and the Justice Department has opened a criminal probe into Boeing. Amidst these ongoing investigations, Barnett’s untimely death has sparked further scrutiny and calls for a thorough examination of the circumstances.
Charleston police are actively investigating Barnett’s death, and his lawyers are hopeful that a comprehensive and accurate investigation will shed light on the truth. The legal team emphasizes the importance of leaving no detail unturned in order to provide the public with a clear understanding of what happened to their client.
As the investigation progresses, Barnett’s family and colleagues will be eagerly awaiting answers and justice for their loved one. The findings of the investigation may have significant implications for both Boeing and the larger aviation industry.