911 Call Sheds Light on Moments after Discovery of Dead Boeing Whistleblower in Charleston

911 Call Sheds Light on Moments after Discovery of Dead Boeing Whistleblower in Charleston

In Charleston County, South Carolina, the world is still reeling from the shocking discovery of the deceased Boeing whistleblower, John Barnett, in his truck at the Holiday Inn on Savannah Highway. The event took place on Saturday, March 9 and has since garnered international attention. The county Coroner’s Office declared that Barnett died from what appears to be the result of a self-inflicted gunshot wound.

Background of Whistleblower John Barnett

John Barnett had been in Charleston to give depositions to lawyers ahead of a federal labor lawsuit scheduled for July, a case he had filed against the global aerospace manufacturer, Boeing. The lawsuit concerned allegations of retaliation after Barnett had lodged a series of ethical complaints during his tenure at the company.

The Mysterious 911 Call

The 911 call made after Barnett was discovered by hotel staff adds another layer to the mystery surrounding his death. The call was initiated by Barnett’s lawyer, Robert Turkewitz, who requested a wellness check when Barnett failed to turn up for a pre-scheduled deposition at 10 am on the day of his discovery.

During the call, a woman from the hotel staff explained to the dispatcher how Barnett was located. Notably, the woman did not mention whether Barnett was dead or alive and did not report any signs of visible injuries such as blood or wounds.

Questions Surrounding the Incident

While Barnett’s death was described by the Charleston County Coroner as a self-inflicted gunshot wound, an unanswered question remains – why was there no blood or wounds visible on his body as per the woman from the hotel who found him? The Charleston Police Department is currently investigating the case and it remains active.

Boeing’s Response to the Incident

Since Barnett’s shocking discovery, two pleadings have been made to Boeing, asking for comment. The first was following his death, and the second followed the revelation of Barnett’s retaliation complaint against the company. In both instances, Boeing expressed their sadness over Barnett’s passing and stated their thoughts were with his family and friends. In relation to the complaint, Boeing addressed that the quality issues raised by Barnett prior to his retirement in 2017 and others mentioned in his complaint about Boeing’s disposition of the charges in 2020, had been reviewed and resolved.

The Future of Barnett’s Case Against Boeing

In spite of John Barnett’s sudden and enigmatic death, his attorney has confirmed that they are ready for the trial against Boeing, planned for June. Whether his passing will have any impact on the trial’s proceedings or outcome is yet to be seen.