Second Australian teen falls victim to Laos poisoning tragedy
The unbearable heartache continues for the family of an Australian teen after she tragically died today following a horrific methanol poisoning incident in Laos. Her passing takes the death toll to six.
Teenage Holly Bowles passed away in a Thai hospital today, November 22, just a day after her best friend, Bianca Jones, also 19 years old, succumbed to the same fate.
Bowles’ devastated family shared the heartbreaking news this afternoon.
“It is with broken hearts and we are so sad to say that our beautiful girl Holly is now at peace.”
The Bowles family found solace in the joy and happiness she brought to everyone around her, celebrating the adventurous spirit that led her to explore Southeast Asia, make new friends, and create cherished memories.
Her proud parents recalled how she was always an amazing big sister to James and expressed their gratitude.
“We would like to thank everyone from back home, in Canada and around the world for the love and support that Holly and our family have received.”
Holly and Bianca, both from Melbourne, were living the dream on a long-anticipated gap year adventure. Unfortunately, their once-thrilling journey turned into a nightmare when they, along with other unsuspecting tourists, fell critically ill after consuming tainted drinks in the picturesque yet perilous town of Vang Vieng.
Both girls began feeling unwell on Wednesday, November 13 and were urgently whisked away to separate hospitals in Bangkok. Tragically, Bianca’s life support was switched off yesterday, as her family made the agonising decision after medical options were exhausted.
“It is with the heaviest of hearts that we share the news that our beloved daughter and sister, Bianca Jones, has passed away.”
They took comfort in knowing her vibrant spirit left an indelible mark on many lives.
Thai government officials confirmed Bianca suffered from “brain swelling due to high levels of methanol found in her system.” Her family is making arrangements to bring her home, although the ongoing police investigation may cause delays.
The death toll from this tragic event has now climbed to six. Thai officials confirmed earlier today that 28 year old British lawyer Simone White had also died. This follows the deaths of two Danish women and an American man, previously acknowledged by officials in their respective countries.
Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong warned about the dangers of drink spiking and methanol poisoning, which remain “far too common in many parts of the world.” She urged parents and young people to have conversations about these risks and stay informed, hoping to prevent such senseless tragedies from occurring again, reported The Western Australian.
As the world watches in grief, the young lives lost serve as a stark reminder of the hidden dangers lurking beneath the surface of international travel.
