QC Manager Took Own Life After Questioning By Lawyers

The family of whistleblower John Barnett, the former Boeing quality control manager who took his own life after questioning by attorneys that went on for several days, has settled their lawsuit against the company. Details of the settlement were not disclosed in court documents filed on May 12, 2025.

Mr. Barnett was an employee of Boeing for more than 30 years who raised concerns with journalists after he retired in 2017. He related instances of discarded metal shavings near wiring for flight controls that could potentially have cut the wiring and caused a disaster. In addition he noted problems with numerous oxygen systems on as many as one quarter of Boeing’s 787 models.

While he was still working, he shared his concerns with his supervisors and others, but the lawsuit stated that their response was to ignore him and then engaged in a campaign of harassment against him.

After being interviewed by attorneys for several days in Charleston, South Carolina, in 2024 regarding a federal labor lawsuit against Boeing, Barnett shot himself and was found in his truck. His death was ruled a suicide by Charleston County Coroner Bobbi Jo O’Neal, a ruling that matched what the Charleston Police Department also concluded.

After the coroner’s report was issued, Barnett’s attorneys released the following statement:

“Mr. Barnett’s last words make clear that while Boeing may not have pulled the trigger, the company is responsible for his death. Mr. Barnett's family wishes to thank the Coroner, the responders and all those who have reached out with kind words and support. It is hoped that John’s legacy will be his brave and courageous efforts to get Boeing to change its culture of concealment to one that places quality and safety first.”

After the settlement was announced, Boeing said in a statement, "We are saddened by John Barnett's death and extend our condolences to his family. Boeing took actions several years ago to review and address the issues that Mr. Barnett raised.”

FMI:  www.boeing.com/