In an unfolding mystery that seems ripped from the pages of a suspense novel, John Barnett, a former Boeing quality control engineer turned whistleblower, was found dead under suspicious circumstances.
On the evening before his untimely demise, Barnett, 62, shared a meal at a Holiday Inn in Charleston, South Carolina, where he appeared in good spirits, indulging in a quesadilla and a Coke.
According to an employee at the hotel, Barnett “didn’t seem upset at all” as he dined alone, a stark contrast to the grim discovery made the following day.
A Grisly Discovery in a Charleston Hotel Parking Lot
Barnett, who was embroiled in a “bombshell” legal battle against Boeing, failed to appear for a scheduled third day of testimony, prompting his legal team to sound the alarm. His body was found on March 9 in his orange pickup truck in the hotel’s parking lot, with a “self-inflicted” gunshot wound to the head, according to initial reports from the Charleston County coroner.
However, the coroner has since stated that further tests are needed before a definitive conclusion can be drawn, and police continue their investigation into the peculiar circumstances surrounding Barnett’s death.
Adding to the intrigue, sources revealed to The Post that Barnett’s vehicle was thoroughly examined for fingerprints, an “unusual measure” in cases initially deemed suicides. This meticulous scrutiny suggests authorities are leaving no stone unturned in their quest for truth.
Barnett Had Lost His Wife, Did That Play a Role?
Bob Emery, a family friend, reflected on conversations with Barnett, noting his focused demeanor and lack of depressive signs. Barnett, who had suffered the loss of his wife, Diane Johnson, in 2022, seemed to be navigating his grief with a forward-looking perspective. Emery, who shared the bond of widowhood with Barnett, recalled their discussions about coping with loss, highlighting Barnett’s optimistic outlook despite his personal and professional challenges.
Before retiring in 2017, Barnett had a long tenure at Boeing, where he ultimately raised alarms about safety concerns with the 787 Dreamliner jets. His claims, which he took public in a BBC interview in 2019, detailed how Boeing allegedly prioritized speed over safety in the production of the aircraft, igniting a storm of controversy and concern for public safety.
The Elephant in the Room: Was it Suicide?
The tragic end of John Barnett raises numerous questions, not least of which is the nature of his death. As investigations continue, the story of a man who sought to hold a corporate giant accountable while grappling with personal loss unfolds, leaving many to wonder about the pressures faced by those who dare to blow the whistle on wrongdoing.