Boeing whistleblower John Barnett dead

Ex-quality control manager found dead in apparent suicide

Barnett raised concerns about safety issues at the company

By Theo Leggett Business correspondent BBC News John Barnett, a former quality control manager at Boeing, has been found dead in South Carolina. The Charleston County Coroners Office told TIME that Barnett died from what appears to be a self-inflicted gunshot wound. Barnett was 58 years old. He had been a vocal critic of Boeing's safety practices, and had raised concerns about the company's 737 MAX aircraft, which has been involved in two fatal crashes. In 2019, Barnett filed a lawsuit against Boeing, alleging that the company had retaliated against him for speaking out about safety concerns. The lawsuit is still pending. Boeing has not yet commented on Barnett's death. **Conclusion** Barnett's death is a reminder of the importance of speaking out about safety concerns, even when it comes at great personal risk. His death is a tragedy, and it is important to remember his legacy as a whistleblower who fought for the safety of the public.