Boeing whistleblower’s family claims company’s conduct caused his suicide

Barnett shared concerns about safety processes at Boeing’s plant in Charleston, South Carolina (pictured). Photograph: Randall Hill/Reuters

The family of a whistleblower at Boeing who killed himself last year is suing the US plane manufacturer, alleging the company’s conduct caused his death.

Boeing pushed John Barnett to his death by harassing and intimidating him after he raised safety concerns about the company’s plant building the 787 Dreamliner in Charleston, South Carolina, a wrongful death lawsuit filed in federal court in the state alleges.