Tragedy struck in Laos as two Australian teenagers, Holly Bowles and Bianca Jones, both aged 19, succumbed to suspected methanol poisoning while travelling through the popular tourist town of Vang Vieng. The two friends, from Melbourne’s southeast, passed away in separate Bangkok hospitals after being placed on life support following the poisoning incident over a week ago. Their deaths bring the number of victims linked to the poisoning to six, including a British woman, an American, and two Danish tourists.

A Reddit post reflects local sentiments: “I want to express my heartfelt condolences for the tragic loss of lives due to what is now suspected to be methanol poisoning. As a Lao person, I am deeply sorry for what has happened to those young and vibrant individuals who came to our country to enjoy their travels….”. See more

Holly’s family paid tribute to their daughter, describing her as someone who “brought so much joy and happiness” and was “living her best life” exploring South East Asia. Foreign Minister Penny Wong also extended her condolences, expressing the grief felt across the nation.

The two teens had been staying at a local hostel, where they took part in an offer of free shots of Laotian vodka. Soon after, they began feeling unwell which was on November 11 during their stay at the Nana Backpacker Hostel. Thai authorities revealed that Bianca’s death was caused by “brain swelling due to high levels of methanol in her system.” Meanwhile, Laotian police have detained the hostel’s owner and manager for questioning, although no charges have yet been filed. Staff confirmed that the teenagers had participated in free shots of Laotian vodka at the hostel before leaving for another bar and subsequently returning.

Methanol, a highly toxic substance, is sometimes illegally substituted for ethanol in alcoholic drinks due to its lower cost. It can also appear as a by-product in poorly distilled homemade liquor, which may have made its way into drinks served at local bars. Such practices have led to warnings from multiple countries, including the US and Australia, urging travellers to exercise caution. Business Insider explains the dangers of methanol: “The ingestion of methanol, a flavourless, colourless type of alcohol that is used in cleaning products, adhesives, and paints, can lead to nausea…”. See more

The deaths have had a profound impact on the victims’ community back home, particularly among members of the Beaumaris Football Club, where both girls were heavily involved. The club hosted a private gathering to provide support to grieving players and coaches, describing it as an “incredibly tough week.”

This heartbreaking incident highlights the dangers of adulterated alcohol and underscores the need for stricter oversight and consumer safety in popular backpacker destinations like Vang Vieng, a hub famed for its vibrant nightlife and adventure sports. Investigations into the tragedy continue, with limited information being released by Laotian authorities. Ensuring safer practices and places for travellers is crucial to prevent similar tragedies from occurring ever again.

Source: The New Daily