November 23rd 2024.
The heartbreaking tragedy of the suspected methanol poisoning deaths of two young Australian women, Bianca Jones and Holly Bowles, while on what was supposed to be the trip of a lifetime in South-East Asia has left their loved ones and the world in shock. As the father of one of the girls, Mark Jones, stood before the press to read a statement on behalf of his family, his emotions were raw and his determination clear. He urged the Laos government to launch a thorough investigation into the incident to ensure that his daughter's death and the deaths of the other victims were not in vain.
Mark Jones spoke of his daughter's lust for life and adventure, and how her dreams were cruelly cut short. She was just beginning her journey and had so much ahead of her. The trip was meant to be full of unforgettable memories and the first of many adventures. Bianca wanted to explore the world, make new friends, and make a positive impact on the world.
But instead, their trip ended tragically as the two friends passed away in separate hospitals in Thailand. They had been flown there for more intense treatment after suffering from suspected methanol poisoning. It is believed that they consumed drinks that were tainted with the deadly substance, which can be found in poorly made liquor or added as a cheaper alternative to ethanol. This can lead to severe poisoning or even death.
The owner of the hostel where the girls stayed, Nana Backpackers Hostel in Vang Vieng, has been detained in the capital city of Laos, Vientiane, to help with the police investigation. It was reported that the girls had free shots at the hostel before going out to other bars, but the owner denies that the drinks came from his establishment.
The news of the deaths has sparked reactions from around the world, with messages of outrage, well-wishes, and warnings from various government officials and even musicians like Pearl Jam frontman Eddie Vedder. Mark Jones expressed his gratitude for the support from the Australian government and also made a plea to the authorities in Laos, a country that has been a popular destination for backpackers for many years.
He urged them to conduct a thorough investigation and to ensure that this kind of tragedy does not happen again. He emphasized that young men and women should be able to travel and create their own life experiences without fear for their safety. He hopes that his daughter's passing will lead to necessary changes to protect others.
After days of silence and limited transparency, the Laos government finally addressed the tragedy and promised to investigate. The local newspaper, Vientiane Times, named the other victims as two Danish women and an American man, along with the two Australian women. The article also mentioned that Laos ranks low on the World Press Freedom Index.
According to a police report, the Danish and American victims were found unconscious in their respective rooms at the hostel on November 13, several days before the news of the Australian women's condition was made public. The women had gone out to a bar the night before and returned home at midnight, while the American man was discovered later in the day when staff noticed he had not left his room.
The hostel manager revealed that the staff was alerted to Bowles and Jones' condition by other guests who noticed they had not checked out as planned on November 13. They quickly arranged for transportation to the hospital for the girls.
The tragic deaths of these young women have raised concerns and questions about the safety of travelers in Laos. Mark Jones and their families hope that their loss will lead to changes in the country to protect others and ensure that young people can travel and explore the world safely.
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