Family of Boeing Whistleblower Files Wrongful Death Lawsuit

The family of John Barnett, a former quality control manager at Boeing, has initiated a wrongful death lawsuit against the aerospace giant after his tragic suicide. Barnett passed away on March 9, 2024, in Charleston, following a prolonged period of questioning by attorneys concerning his whistleblower claims about defects in Boeing’s jumbo jets.

Allegations of Harassment

According to the lawsuit, filed in federal court in South Carolina, Barnett was subjected to a “campaign of harassment, abuse, and intimidation” orchestrated by Boeing. The suit alleges that this campaign was designed to discredit Barnett and pressure him into abandoning his claims. “Boeing had threatened to break John, and break him it did,” the family’s attorneys stated in court documents.

Background on John Barnett

At 62 years old, Barnett had dedicated 32 years of his life to Boeing, departing the company in 2017. Following his retirement, he made headlines by voicing concerns related to safety issues he observed at Boeing’s South Carolina facility. His brother, Rodney Barnett, recalled that his concerns started when he noticed critical quality control failures, including the presence of metal shavings near wiring that could pose significant risks.

Mental Health Decline

The lawsuit highlights Barnett’s deteriorating mental health, which his family attributed to the pressure and intimidation from Boeing. After suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), his condition worsened significantly, leading to severe depression and anxiety, ultimately culminating in his suicide. “Whether or not Boeing intended to drive John to his death… it was absolutely foreseeable that PTSD and John’s unbearable depression, panic attacks, and anxiety would lead to an elevated risk of suicide,” the lawsuit asserts.

Recent Developments in Boeing’s Safety Culture

The lawsuit arrives at a time of heightened scrutiny on Boeing’s safety practices. A recent incident involving an Alaska Airlines jet—where a door panel blew off mid-flight—prompted criticism from a panel of experts. Their February 2024 report underscored a prevailing lack of safety awareness within Boeing, echoing concerns that have been cited throughout the last decade regarding quality control failures.

Demands of the Lawsuit

The Barnett family’s lawsuit does not specify an amount for damages but seeks compensation for emotional distress as well as financial losses, including back pay and lost future earnings. They are also requesting coverage for mental health treatment expenses and other related costs arising from Barnett’s death.

Company Response

Boeing released a statement expressing condolences over Barnett’s death but has not yet responded specifically to the allegations in the lawsuit. The company stated, “We are saddened by John Barnett’s death and extend our condolences to his family.” As the case unfolds, the implications for Boeing’s practices and policies regarding whistleblowers and employee treatment are expected to gain further attention.

If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health issues, support is available. You can reach out to the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline by calling or texting 988, or chat with them online here.