An American citizen has died in Vang Vieng, Laos, a popular destination for backpackers, where methanol-laced alcohol has caused a recent wave of poisonings. The U.S. State Department confirmed the death but withheld the victim’s identity out of respect for their family. The incident comes after the tragic death of 19-year-old Bianca Jones from Australia, who was evacuated to Thailand for treatment after falling ill with methanol poisoning, along with her friend Holly Bowles. Jones passed away due to brain swelling caused by high methanol levels, while Bowles remains in critical condition.
The Danish foreign ministry confirmed the deaths of two of its citizens in Laos but did not specify the cause. New Zealand’s foreign ministry is also investigating a potential case involving one of its nationals affected by methanol poisoning. In response, the British government is offering consular assistance to its citizens involved in the incident, following a travel advisory warning against drinking tainted spirits in Laos.
Laos has long warned travelers about the risks of consuming alcohol spiked with methanol in bars and nightclubs, as it has been used to dilute drinks. The incident began when Jones and Bowles, staying at the Nana Backpacker hostel, became ill after drinking free shots of Lao vodka offered to guests. The hostel manager arranged for them to be taken to the hospital when they failed to check out on November 13.
The Australian government, including Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, expressed condolences, urging parents to discuss the dangers of alcohol consumption with their children. Both Australia and New Zealand have updated their travel advisories, urging caution when consuming alcohol in Laos.
