A second Australian teenager, Holly Bowles, tragically passed away in a Bangkok hospital after falling critically ill from suspected methanol poisoning in Laos, bringing the death toll to six. Holly, 19, had been on life support following the poisoning incident over a week ago. The mass poisoning, which affected several tourists, is believed to have resulted from drinking tainted alcohol, with a 28-year-old British woman, Simone White, also confirmed dead from similar causes.
The victims, including Australians Bianca Jones and Bowles, consumed methanol-laced drinks while staying at the Nana Backpacker Hostel in Vang Vieng, a popular tourist town. The U.S. State Department issued an alert, warning travelers in the area about the dangers of methanol poisoning. Methanol, often used in poorly distilled liquor, can cause severe poisoning or death when consumed. Laos, a popular but poor Southeast Asian country, has seen increased concern among tourists following the tragic event, with local businesses and residents expressing shock.