A second young Australian tourist passed away on Friday ( Nov 22 ), bringing the total to six in a Laos backpacker hotspot as a result of a suspected case of methanol poisoning.
Following what the media described as a night out in the adventure town of Vang Vieng, two Norwegian citizens, an American, and two Brits have even passed away.
According to American and Asian media, the party of about a hundred tourists left on November 12 and became ill.
Holly Bowles ‘ tragic departure may be heartbreaking to all Australians, according to American foreign minister Penny Wong in a statement.
” Only yesterday, Holly lost her best friend, Bianca Jones”.
The foreign minister continued,” I know that all Australians may be holding both people in our hearts tomorrow.”
The grieving relatives of Jones said in a speech to Australia’s Herald Sun newspaper that they are comforted by the understanding that her extraordinary spirit had a lasting impact on so many life while she was a member of us.
” Our family has been really humbling during this unfathomable time,” said one of the humbling acts.
Officials from Australia are now pressing Thai authorities to launch a thorough and impartial investigation into the incident.
Employees at Bowles ‘ alleged hospital in Bangkok were unable to confirm her presence, according to the company’s statement.
AFP has contacted Australia’s ambassador in Bangkok for opinion.