UK Lawyer Left Fighting for Life After Poisoned Drinks in Laos
Simone White, 28, a lawyer from Orpington, is critically ill after allegedly drinking methanol-laced spirits while holidaying in Laos. The shocking incident struck in the backpacker hotspot of Vang Vieng, where contaminated drinks have already killed four and hospitalised 11 others.
Holiday Horror: Backpackers Poisoned by Free Shots
Simone, a former St Olave’s Grammar School pupil, fell ill alongside a group of travellers at the Nana Backpacker Hostel last Tuesday night. Guests reported receiving free shots of local vodka, later revealed to be tainted with deadly methanol.
Friends Issue Dire Warning After Methanol Mass Poisoning
“Urgent — please avoid all local spirits. Our group stayed in Vang Vieng and drank free shots offered by one of the bars. Six of us who drank from the same place are in hospital with methanol poisoning.”
— Bethany Clarke, healthcare worker and friend of Simone
Bethany Clarke took to the Laos Backpacking Facebook group, urging holidaymakers to steer clear of local alcohol. “It’s just not worth the risk,” she warned.
Deaths Mount as Methanol Tragedy Unfolds
- 19-year-old Bianca Jones from Melbourne is among the dead.
- Two Danish women in their 20s also lost their lives.
- An American traveller has been confirmed dead.
- Bianca’s friend, Holly Bowles, remains on life support.
Laos Authorities Probe Deadly Drink Scandal
The Nana Backpacker Hostel confirmed over 100 guests were served free shots of local vodka on November 12, but claimed no other illnesses were reported. Laos officials have yet to pinpoint the source of the toxic methanol, an industrial alcohol sometimes found in fake or poorly regulated drinks.
Simone’s Family Await Updates Amid Serious Condition
Simone remains seriously ill in hospital. Her family and friends anxiously await news as she battles the effects of methanol poisoning.
Traveller Safety: Beware Cheap Local Spirits Abroad
This tragedy highlights the dangers of consuming unregulated alcohol overseas. Methanol poisoning can cause severe symptoms including abdominal pain, headaches, vision loss, and death. The British Embassy in Laos is offering support to those affected.
Travellers are urged to avoid unverified local spirits and seek immediate medical help if feeling unwell after drinking.
More updates to come as the investigation unfolds.
