An Australian teenager has tragically passed away after consuming tainted alcohol in Vang Vieng, Laos, a case that Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese described as "every parent's nightmare."
The U.S. State Department also confirmed that an American citizen died under similar circumstances in the same party destination, raising the total death toll to four.
Prime Minister Albanese informed Parliament that 19-year-old Bianca Jones tragically died after being evacuated from Laos to a Thai hospital for treatment. Her friend, also 19, remains hospitalized in Thailand, receiving ongoing care following the incident.
Victim's Family Requests Privacy Amid Grief
"This is every parent's very worst fear and a nightmare that no one should have to endure," Albanese said. "We also take this moment to say that we're thinking of Bianca's friend Holly Bowles who is fighting for her life."
In a statement to the Melbourne Herald Sun newspaper, Jones' family asked for privacy in their grief.
"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," the family wrote.
"We want to express our deepest gratitude for the overwhelming support, love, and prayers we've received from across Australia."
Methanol Poisoning Linked to Alcohol Deaths in Vang Vieng
The U.S. State Department confirmed the death of an American tourist in Vang Vieng, Laos, following the consumption of tainted alcohol. While declining to provide further details out of respect for the family, the department stated that local authorities are investigating the incident and that consular assistance is being offered.
"We offer our sincerest condolences to the family on their loss," the State Department said.
Attempts to contact Laos' Health Ministry were unsuccessful, as listed telephone numbers were out of service, and police declined to comment on the incident.
Laos, one of Southeast Asia's poorest nations, remains a popular destination for tourists. Vang Vieng, in particular, is a hotspot for backpackers, renowned for its lively party culture and adventure sports offerings, despite the risks often associated with such environments.
International Authorities Respond to Growing Crisis
Details of the alcohol poisoning began to emerge roughly a week after the two Australian women fell ill on Nov. 13 following a night of drinking with a group in the remote town of Vang Vieng.
The women are believed to have consumed drinks contaminated with methanol, a toxic substance occasionally used as a substitute for alcohol in mixed drinks at unscrupulous establishments. Methanol poisoning can result in severe health complications or even death, underscoring the dangers of consuming unregulated alcohol in certain locations.
Thai authorities confirmed that Jones had died by "brain swelling due to high levels of methanol found in her system."
"Drink spiking and methanol poisoning are far too common in many parts of the world," Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong said after receiving news of Jones' death.
"At this time I would say to parents, to young people, please have a conversation about risks, please inform yourselves, please let's work together to ensure this tragedy doesn't happen again."
New Zealand's Foreign Ministry announced on Thursday that one of its citizens in Laos had fallen ill and might be a victim of methanol poisoning. Meanwhile, Denmark's Foreign Ministry confirmed that two of its citizens had died in Laos, potentially linked to the same incident. However, Danish officials declined to provide further details about the circumstances of their deaths.
This article includes reporting from The Associated Press
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