Summary

Holly Bowles, a 19-year-old Australian, has become the sixth foreign tourist to die from suspected methanol poisoning in Laos.

She and her friend Bianca Jones fell ill in Vang Vieng, a popular backpacking town, after reportedly consuming tainted alcohol, which can be lethal even in small amounts.

Other victims include a British lawyer, an American man, and two Danish women. Methanol, often found in bootleg or home-distilled alcohol, is believed to be the cause.

Authorities are investigating, with the manager of the hostel where free shots were served detained for questioning.

  • ByteOnBikes@slrpnk.net
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    4 days ago

    These are one of those situations that absolutely can devastate a tourist destination.

    It’s not just international eyes on their government. But also, news spreading that something is killing tourists will quickly turn into a panic and people traveling there. Because first, it’s “just alcohol”.