In the latest of a series of unsettling events, two whistleblowers tied to the aerospace industry have tragically died under mysterious conditions.
Joshua Dean, 45, a former quality auditor at Spirit AeroSystems, passed away early Tuesday due to complications from a rapidly progressing infection, the specifics of which remain unclear.
His death follows closely on the heels of another incident involving a Boeing whistleblower, John Barnett, 62, who was found dead in March from what appeared to be a self-inflicted gunshot wound.
The attorneys representing both dead whistleblowers expressed concerns that other individuals considering stepping forward with information critical of the company’s operations and safety protocols might reconsider, according to the New York Post.
Ten more potential whistleblowers are reportedly considering coming forward.
Mr. Barnett, a veteran employee with over 32 years of service at Boeing, did not appear for a scheduled testimony in a significant lawsuit against the company, leading to the discovery of his body in his vehicle in a hotel parking lot in South Carolina.
The tragic losses occur amid a tumultuous period for Boeing, which recently reported a $355 million loss in the first quarter amidst declining revenues. The company has been navigating through a crisis, intensified by allegations of compromised plane safety and subpar work quality brought forward by whistleblowers.
In parallel, leadership shifts within Boeing have been observed, with CEO Dave Calhoun announcing his departure by the end of the year, a move that analysts perceive as a response to the ongoing safety controversies.
• Staff can be reached at 202-636-3000.