Six tourists have died in Laos after consuming free shots allegedly laced with methanol at a backpacker hostel. The owner and manager of the hostel have been detained by police for questioning. Methanol poisoning is suspected in the deaths, including that of British lawyer Simone White and Australian teen Bianca Jones. Several others have been hospitalized due to methanol poisoning.
Key Points
Six tourists have died in Laos after consuming free shots allegedly laced with methanol at a backpacker hostel
Owner and manager of the hostel detained for questioning by police
Methanol poisoning suspected in the deaths, with several others hospitalized
Families and authorities from various countries expressing condolences and support
Warnings issued about the dangers of consuming unregulated alcohol in Laos
Pros
Police investigation ongoing to determine the exact cause of the deaths
Awareness raised about the dangers of consuming unregulated alcohol in foreign countries
Cons
Tragic loss of six lives due to suspected methanol poisoning
Several others left seriously unwell after consuming tainted drinks