|
Listen to article
|
The tragic passing of Australian teenager Bianca Jones has brought the total number of suspected mass poisoning victims in Laos to four, further deepening the mystery surrounding these alarming deaths. As authorities scramble to determine the cause, the incident has left both locals and international visitors alike questioning the safety standards in place at tourist destinations.
The family of the young Australian woman, aged 19, disclosed her death to the press on Thursday, confirming the tragic news that had been circulating. This announcement came just hours after the US State Department reported that an American man had died in the well-known tourist town of Vang Vieng, raising further questions about the safety of the region for foreign visitors.
Authorities have also confirmed the deaths of two Danish women, aged 19 and 20, who tragically passed away in Laos last week. Meanwhile, Jones’ companion, Holly Bowles, along with a British woman, are reportedly fighting for their lives and are currently on life support in the hospital.
Though police are still looking into the circumstances surrounding the deaths, emerging news reports and accounts from fellow tourists point to the possibility that the victims unknowingly drank substances laced with methanol, a poisonous ingredient frequently found in illegal alcohol.
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said the Department of Foreign Affairs had confirmed Ms Jones’s death.
“Our first thoughts in this moment are with her family and friends who are grieving a terrible and cruel loss,” Albanese said on Thursday afternoon.
“This is every parent’s very worst fear and a nightmare that no one should have to endure.”
The US State Department said it was “closely monitoring” the situation with regards to the American victim, adding that it was up to local authorities to determine the cause of death.
Australian and UK authorities have each warned their citizens to be careful of methanol poisoning when consuming alcohol in Laos.
Read also: ‘Not My King’: Australian Senator Screams At King Charles
As reported by the hostel manager to the Associated Press, the two women were among more than 100 guests who were treated to free shots of Lao vodka by the hostel. Following their drinks, the two women headed out for the evening, but the manager confirmed that no other guests had experienced any health issues as a result.
While the manager expressed optimism that the investigation would ultimately clear the hostel’s reputation, he noted that the practice of serving free shots has been suspended for the time being, as a precautionary measure.
Speaking to the Herald Sun, Jones’ family shared their sincere appreciation for the overwhelming outpouring of support, affection, and prayers that have poured in from all corners of Australia, offering them solace in their time of grief.
In the closing lines, the family expressed a gentle plea for privacy, asking for space as they navigate the painful process of mourning and begin the long road to recovery.
