Suspected Methanol Poisoning Claims Fourth Tourist Life in Laos

Australian teenager Bianca Jones has been confirmed as the fourth tourist to have died in a suspected methanol poisoning incident in Laos. The 19-year-old’s passing was confirmed by her family to the media on Thursday. Just hours prior, the U.S. State Department reported the death of an American man in the tourist town of Vang Vieng.

Authorities in Laos have been investigating the deaths, with growing concern that they may be linked to drinks contaminated with methanol, a toxic chemical commonly found in illicitly brewed alcohol. Two Danish women, aged 19 and 20, also died under similar circumstances last week, while Jones’ friend Holly Bowles and another British woman are reportedly on life support.

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese confirmed the Department of Foreign Affairs had verified Ms. Jones’s death. «Our first thoughts in this moment are with her family and friends who are grieving a terrible and cruel loss,» stated Albanese on Thursday afternoon. «This is every parent’s very worst fear and a nightmare that no one should have to endure.»

The U.S. State Department has expressed a close watch on the situation concerning the American victim, stating that the determination of the cause of death lies with local authorities. Australian and American officials have advised their citizens to be cautious of methanol poisoning when consuming alcohol in Laos.

Bianca Jones tragically died in a Thai hospital, a week after the suspected methanol poisoning event in Laos, which also left her best friend Holly Bowles critically ill. Following confirmation of her daughter’s demise, the Jones family shared a heartfelt statement with the Herald Sun: «It is with the heaviest of hearts that we share the news that our beloved daughter and sister, Bianca Jones, has passed away.»

Federal MP Zoe Daniels, representing the Goldstein electorate which includes Beaumaris, conveyed deep sympathy for the grieving families on Thursday. «I offer my sympathy and strength to Bianca’s family and to Holly’s parents Shaun and Samantha who remain at her bedside in Bangkok,» expressed Daniels.

A spokesperson from the U.S. Department of State confirmed the death of an American in Vang Vieng, days after Danish authorities acknowledged the death of two of its citizens. However, there was no official link established with methanol poisoning, with the responsibility of determining the cause of death left to local entities.

Victoria’s Premier, Jacinta Allan, also expressed her sympathies, describing the situation as «heartbreaking» and acknowledged the impact on the community who loves these young women. The families of the affected are calling for a swift investigation by authorities to establish the facts surrounding the tragic occurrences.