Teen, 19, becomes sixth person to die from 'poisoning' from drinks at popular party town
An Australian teenager has become what is thought to be the sixth person to die from suspected methanol poisoning in Laos.
Holly Bowles, 19, from Melbourne, passed away on Friday (22 November) at a hospital in Bangkok, just one day after her best friend Bianca Jones also died.
Bianca, 19, passed away at a Thai hospital after a number of people became unwell in the popular backpacking town of Vang Vieng last week.
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In a statement, Holly's family said: "It is with broken hearts, and we are so sad to say that our beautiful girl Holly is now at peace.
"We find comfort and solace in knowing that Holly bought so much joy and happiness to so many people.
"Holly was living her best life travelling through South East Asia meeting new friends and enjoying incredible experiences.
"As her parents we were always so incredibly proud of everything Holly did. Holly was an amazing big sister to James and she always looked out for him."
Holly and Bianca had been staying in the resort when they both fell ill after allegedly consuming drinks containing methanol.
Despite being toxic to humans, methanol is sometimes mixed into drinks as a cheap way of upping the alcohol content.
In a statement following their daughter's death, Bianca's family said: "It is with the heaviest of hearts that we share the news that our beloved daughter and sister, Bianca Jones, has passed away.
"She was surrounded by love, and we are comforted by the knowledge that her incredible spirit touched so many lives during her time with us.
"We want to express our deepest gratitude for the overwhelming support, love, and prayers we’ve received from across Australia. The kindness shown to our family during this unimaginable time has been truly humbling."
Four other individuals have also passed away after falling ill, including a 56-year-old American citizen and a British lawyer named Simone White, who was aged 28.
The Danish Ministry for Foreign Affairs has also confirmed that two women from Denmark have died.
It is believed that no charges have been filed in relation to the incident, but that a number of people have been detained.
The Nana Backpacker Hostel, where it is reported free shots were served in the days prior, is currently still operating but is not accepting any new guests or bookings.
The manager of the hostel said that over 100 guests were given the free drinks and that no other guest had reported any issue.
It is not currently known where the contaminated drinks were served.
Topics: World News, Australia, Alcohol, Food and Drink
Lucy Devine