Wichita, Kansas – April 30, 2023
Joshua Dean, a 45-year-old former quality auditor at Boeing supplier Spirit AeroSystems, passed away on Tuesday after a brief illness. Dean becomes the second Boeing-linked whistleblower to die in recent months, raising questions and sparking investigations.
Dean raised concerns in 2022 about potential safety defects with the 737 MAX airplane. He alleged that Spirit leadership ignored these manufacturing issues.
Attorneys representing Dean say he was previously healthy and the rapidity of his decline from flu-like symptoms to pneumonia and MRSA is concerning. An autopsy has been requested by his family.
This news follows the death by suicide of John Barnett, a former Boeing quality manager, just weeks prior. Barnett had publicly criticized the company’s handling of safety concerns with the 787 Dreamliner.
The close proximity of these deaths has drawn scrutiny, with some calling for a deeper investigation into potential retaliation against whistleblowers or underlying health and safety concerns within Boeing’s supply chain.
Boeing has not commented on the specifics of Dean’s case but expressed condolences to his family. The company previously stated that Barnett’s concerns were addressed before his departure.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is reportedly reviewing both deaths as part of their ongoing oversight of Boeing’s manufacturing practices.
This story is likely to continue developing as investigations proceed and more information comes to light.
Calls for Transparency Mount as Second Boeing Whistleblower Dies
The sudden death of Joshua Dean has cast a long shadow over Boeing and its safety record. Public pressure is mounting for a comprehensive investigation into both Dean’s case and the death of John Barnett.
Unanswered Questions
Dean’s attorney, Robert Turkewitz, highlights the rapidity of his client’s decline as a key concern. “A seemingly healthy individual succumbing to illness so quickly raises serious questions,” he states.
The autopsy results are pending, but some speculate that the specific strain of MRSA contracted by Dean could be linked to hospital or industrial settings. This raises concerns about potential safety hazards within the Boeing supply chain.
Whistleblower Protections Under Scrutiny
The deaths of Dean and Barnett have reignited discussions surrounding whistleblower protections. Critics argue that the current system may not be robust enough, potentially discouraging employees from reporting safety issues for fear of retaliation.
FAA Investigation Expands
The FAA has confirmed that its investigation will encompass both Dean and Barnett’s deaths. They will examine potential links to their work at Boeing and any concerns raised regarding safety protocols.
Boeing Faces Mounting Pressure
Boeing is facing pressure from multiple fronts. Lawmakers are calling for increased oversight, and safety advocacy groups are demanding transparency. Investors are also likely to be concerned, with potential for lawsuits and reputational damage.
Boeing has maintained its commitment to safety and cooperation with the FAA investigation. However, the company needs to regain public trust. Addressing concerns about whistleblower protection and a thorough investigation into Dean’s death will be crucial steps in that direction.
The outcome of these investigations and the actions taken by Boeing will likely have a significant impact on the company’s future and the broader aviation industry.
