Former Boeing engineer and whistleblower John Barnett died by suicide in a Charleston hotel parking lot.

Barnett had previously raised alarm over safety issues within Boeing and participated in a whistleblower lawsuit.

He had reported quality problems at a Boeing plant, which were defended by the company's site leader.

Barnett's family attributes his death to a 'hostile work environment at Boeing,' prompting calls for an in-depth investigation.

His death adds to the controversy surrounding Boeing, which is already under scrutiny for a series of safety incidents.

The Charleston Police Department is conducting a high-priority investigation into Barnett's death.

Public reminder: The 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline is available for anyone contemplating suicide.