Tragic Methanol Poisoning Incident Claims Five Lives in Vang Vieng
A tragic incident occurred in the city of Vang Vieng, where five tourists, including a British woman named Simone White, fell victim to a suspected methanol poisoning case. The 28-year-old British victim reportedly fell ill after consuming free drinks offered at a local bar.
Details of the Incident
The victims were reportedly staying at the Nana Backpacker Hostel. The group began experiencing symptoms after a night of drinking together. Simone White’s friend, Bethany Clarke, also from Orpington, reportedly fell ill and was hospitalized following the incident. The other victims included an Australian, an American, and two Danes.
Social Media Warning
In a post on a Facebook group dedicated to backpackers in Laos, which was later deleted, Bethany Clarke issued a warning. She urged the group to avoid all local spirits, revealing that six people, including herself, were hospitalized with methanol poisoning after accepting free shots offered by a local bar in Vang Vieng.
Clarke was reportedly treated in a private hospital, where she received “numerous IVs” and spent several days recovering. The current status of her health is unknown.
Hostel’s Response
According to Duong Duc Toan, the manager of Nana Backpacker Hostel, more than 100 guests received free shots as a gesture of hospitality. He stated that the alcohol was sourced from a certified distributor and had not been contaminated. The hostel staff arranged transportation to the hospital for two women who were not feeling well after failing to check out on November 13.
Investigation Underway
The source of the contaminated drinks remains unknown. The Lao police are currently investigating the incident to determine where the drinks were served and the cause of the methanol poisoning.
