Sat Nov 23 08:48:31 UTC 2024: ## Six Tourists Dead in Laos Methanol Poisoning Incident
**Vang Vieng, Laos** – A suspected methanol poisoning incident in the popular tourist town of Vang Vieng, Laos, has claimed the lives of six foreign tourists, prompting an investigation and warnings from several governments. The victims include two Danish citizens, an American, a Briton, and two Australians. A group of approximately a dozen foreigners fell ill after a night out on November 12th, with the death toll rising steadily throughout the week. The latest fatality, 19-year-old Australian Holly Bowles, passed away in a Bangkok hospital on Friday.
The Laotian Ministry of Foreign Affairs expressed its condolences to the victims’ families and stated that an investigation is underway. Australian and British authorities have confirmed the deaths of their citizens and issued travel advisories warning of the dangers of methanol poisoning in Laos. The Vietnamese manager of the Nana Backpackers Hostel, where the tourists were staying, is currently being questioned by authorities, though no charges have been filed.
Methanol, a highly toxic alcohol often used in industrial products, is suspected to have been added to the alcohol consumed by the tourists. This additive can cause blindness, liver damage, and death. Despite the tragedy, reports indicate that tourism in Vang Vieng continues largely unabated, with businesses operating as usual and new tourists arriving. Authorities in Laos have yet to release a public statement on the ongoing investigation.
First Piper 