Suspected Methanol Poisoning Claims Lives of Tourists in Laos

An alarming spate of tourist deaths in Laos has brought the issue of methanol poisoning to the forefront. Authorities have confirmed that four tourists have tragically died, prompting ongoing investigations into the suspected poisoning incidents in the tourist town of Vang Vieng.

Bianca Jones, a 19-year-old Australian, was identified by her family as one of the victims who died from suspected methanol poisoning. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese expressed condolences, stating, «Our first thoughts in this moment are with her family and friends who are grieving a terrible and cruel loss.» He further commented, «This is every parent’s very worst fear and a nightmare that no one should have to endure.»

The deaths are under investigation by police, with initial reports suggesting that the tourists consumed drinks possibly laced with methanol, noted for its presence in unregulated or bootleg liquor. The US State Department reported that an American man is also among the victims, offering condolences to the victim’s family, while American authorities continue to monitor the situation closely.

In what appears to be a similar case, Danish authorities confirmed the deaths of two Danish women, aged 19 and 20, in Laos last week. Respecting confidentiality, the Danish foreign ministry declined to disclose further details. According to reports, both of these women consumed alcohol under circumstances comparable to those of Jones and the American victim’s death.

Vang Vieng, located in central Laos, has been a popular destination for young backpackers traveling along the Banana Pancake Trail, a well-known backpacking route in Southeast Asia. The town has become infamous for suspected methanol poisoning, with police now closing down Nana Backpacker Hostel for investigation after it surfaced that Bianca Jones and her friend, Holly Bowles, had stayed there.

The hostel’s manager admitted that the women were among over 100 guests who were offered free shots of Lao vodka. He expressed hopes that the investigation would exonerate the hostel, while confirming the immediate cessation of offering free shots.

Amidst this harrowing incident, Holly Bowles remains hospitalized on life support in Bangkok. The Australian authorities hope for her recovery while New Zealand and the UK have also confirmed their citizens affected by suspected methanol poisoning in Laos, with a Dutch tourist also hospitalized in stable condition.

A global alert emphasizes caution against consuming unfamiliar alcoholic beverages in Laos, particularly those offered for free or with questionable packaging. International governments urge their citizens to remain vigilant regarding such health risks when traveling in the area.