Six people have so far died after the methanol poisoning in Vng Vieng, Laos, including Brit Simone White, an American, two Danish tourists and Australians Bianca Jones and Holly Bowles
A teenage victim of the methanol poisoning in Laos was “living her best life” before she was served the laced shots, according to her heartbroken family.
Australians Holly Bowles and Bianca Jones, both 19, were among the, so far, six people to have died, which also includes British lawyer Simone White, 28. An American and two Danish tourists have also died in the tragedy in Vang Vieng.
Holly Bowles, 19, had been in critical condition in Thailand on life support following the poisoning in Laos more than a week ago. In a statement, her family said: “Holly was living her best life travelling through South East Asia meeting new friends and enjoying incredible experiences.
“We are so sad to say that our beautiful girl Holly is now at peace. We find comfort and solace in knowing Holly brought so much joy and happiness to so many people.”
An officer at Vang Vieng’s Tourism Police office said earlier today a “number of people” had been detained in the case but that no charges have yet been filed. Staff at the Nana Backpacker Hostel, which was still operating but not accepting new guests, confirmed the manager and owner were among those taken in for questioning.
Earlier today, the family of Simone White also shared a statement after her shock death. They said: “We are devastated by the loss of our beautiful, kind and loving daughter Simone. Simone was one of a kind and had the most wonderful energy and spark for life. She was a soul who gave so much to so many and was loved by her family, friends and colleagues.
“Simone has been taken from us too soon, she will be sorely missed by her brother, grandmother and entire family. Our hearts go out to all other families who have been affected by this terrible tragedy.”
Ms White was a lawyer with global law firm Squire Patton Boggs, whose work involved general commercial matters, and contentious and non-contentious intellectual property law issues, according to the firm’s website. In a statement, the law firm said: “It is with deep sadness we mourn the tragic passing of our dear friend and colleague Simone White.
“”Simone was a talented colleague with a bright future ahead of her and someone who epitomised (our firm’s) values. Our thoughts go out to all of Simone’s family, friends and those colleagues and clients who had the privilege to work with and know Simone. She will be sincerely missed.”
The U.S. State Department has issued a health alert for citizens travelling in Laos, warning of “suspected methanol poisoning in Vang Vieng, possibly through the consumption of methanol-laced alcoholic drinks.”
