VIENTIANE, Laos (AP) — Tragedy has struck in Laos as an Australian teenager, Bianca Jones, lost her life after consuming contaminated alcohol. The Australian Prime Minister, Anthony Albanese, described this incident as a nightmare that no parent should ever have to face. Alongside her, an American and two Danish tourists have also reportedly died, as health officials noted several cases of illness linked to tainted drinks in Vang Vieng, a town beloved by backpackers.
Jones, only 19 years old, died after being airlifted from Vang Vieng to a hospital in Thailand for urgent treatment, while another 19-year-old friend, Holly Bowles, remains in critical condition and connected to life support. “This is the worst fear for any parent,” Albanese said in Parliament, extending his thoughts to Bowles and her family during this challenging time.
It is suspected that the individuals consumed drinks laced with methanol, a dangerous chemical sometimes used in bars as a cheaper substitute for ethanol. Methanol ingestion can lead to severe health issues, including poisoning or death.
Local authorities have been slow to provide information regarding the incident, with contact numbers for Laos’ Health Ministry proving ineffective and police officers declining to comment. Reports indicate that several foreign nationals have also suffered from methanol poisoning.
The U.S. State Department confirmed the death of an American tourist in Vang Vieng, while Denmark’s Foreign Ministry indicated that two of its citizens were also victims of the same incident but did not explicitly link their deaths to methanol poisoning.
After the news of his daughter’s condition, Shaun Bowles spoke to reporters outside Bangkok Hospital, expressing gratitude for the support and love from friends and family back home. He also requested privacy, emphasizing the importance of spending time with his daughter during this crisis.
In a heartfelt message to the Melbourne Herald Sun, Jones’ family asked for privacy as they grieve, reflecting on the love surrounding her and the impact she had on many lives. “We are comforted by the knowledge that her incredible spirit touched so many lives during her time with us,” they stated. They also extended their gratitude for the overwhelming support they have received from across Australia.
In the wake of this tragedy, the U.S. State Department has announced that local authorities are investigating the case and are responsible for providing updates. They extended their condolences to the grieving family in an email statement to The Associated Press.
Vang Vieng, a landlocked area in Laos, is known for being a picturesque but popular destination among backpackers seeking adventure and nightlife. Unfortunately, news of alcohol poisoning began to surface about a week after the Australian women fell ill on November 13, following a night of drinking with acquaintances.
Thai authorities have confirmed that Jones’ death was attributed to “brain swelling due to high levels of methanol found in her system.” This devastating case has reignited discussions about the prevalence of drink-spiking and methanol poisoning in various regions across the globe.
Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong addressed the issue, urging parents and young adults to have discussions about the risks associated with drinking and to educate themselves to prevent such tragedies from occurring in the future. New Zealand’s Foreign Ministry also reported concerns regarding a citizen in Laos who may be experiencing similar health issues related to methanol poisoning, prompting them to issue a travel advisory.
On Tuesday, Duong Duc Toan, manager of the Nana Backpacker Hostel, recounted how staff were alerted by other guests that the Australian women were unwell after not checking out as scheduled on November 13, leading staff to arrange their transportation to a hospital. Their families traveled to Thailand to be by their side.
“All Australians share their deepest sympathy during this heartbreaking time,” Albanese remarked. “Bianca’s adventure should have been filled with joy and cherished memories, making her loss all the more tragic.”
___
Contributions to this story were made by reporters Rising in Bangkok, Jutarat Skulpichetrat in Bangkok, Rod McGuirk in Melbourne, Australia, and Charlotte Graham-McLay in Wellington, New Zealand.
