Tragic Methanol Poisoning Claims Six Tourists in Laos
A devastating incident in Vang Vieng, Laos, has resulted in the deaths of six young tourists, including British lawyer Simone White, from suspected methanol poisoning. The 28-year-old White, from Orpington, south-east London, was one of the victims in this heartbreaking event that has shocked the international community.
White’s parents released a deeply emotional statement, describing her as someone with “the most wonderful energy and spark for life” who was “taken far too soon.” Her employer, law firm Squire Patton Boggs, mourned the loss of a “talented colleague with a bright future” who epitomized their firm’s values.
The other victims include:
– Holly Bowles, 19, from Australia
– Bianca Jones, 19, an Australian teammate of Bowles
– An unnamed 19-year-old Danish woman
– An unnamed 20-year-old Danish woman
– An unnamed American man
Two of the Australian victims died after being transferred to a hospital in Bangkok, Thailand, while White was treated in Vientiane, Laos’s capital.
Experts warn that methanol is extremely dangerous, with medical specialists noting that drinking as little as 25 millilitres can be fatal. Christer Hogstrand, a professor of molecular ecotoxicology at King’s College London, explained that methanol’s different carbon atom structure makes it deadly, as the human body processes it differently from regular alcohol.
The Nana Backpacker Hostel, where some of the Australian teenagers were staying, reported giving out free shots to around 100 guests the previous evening. The hostel’s manager has been detained for questioning, though they claim no other guests became ill.
Methanol poisoning is a long-standing issue in South East Asia, particularly in poorer countries along the Mekong river. Despite numerous government warnings, there remains limited awareness among backpackers about the risks of consuming unregulated alcohol.
The poisoning can take up to 24 hours to show symptoms, making it particularly dangerous. Methanol is often added to bootleg alcohol because it is cheaper than regular alcohol, creating a significant risk for unsuspecting tourists.
White’s colleagues remembered her as “one of the kindest, most genuine and thoughtful people,” who “lived life to the fullest and encouraged everyone around her to do the same.” Her family expressed their devastation, stating that their hearts go out to other families affected by this terrible tragedy.
The incident serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers lurking in unregulated alcohol consumption, particularly in tourist destinations with less stringent safety regulations.
