Bianca Jones, 19, was on a dream trip with her best friend when tragedy struck.
A young Australian woman, Bianca Jones, has tragically died in a Thailand hospital after allegedly consuming drinks laced with methanol during a trip through Southeast Asia. The 19-year-old was on the adventure of a lifetime with her best friend, Holly Bowles, when both fell seriously ill after reportedly ingesting contaminated alcohol in Laos.
A Dream Trip Turned Tragic
Bianca and Holly, both from Melbourne’s bayside suburbs, embarked on their much-anticipated journey to Southeast Asia, eager to explore and create lasting memories. However, their trip took a devastating turn last week when they reportedly consumed cocktails suspected to be laced with methanol.
The pair was staying at Nana’s Backpackers Hostel in Vang Vieng, a popular tourist destination about 130 kilometers north of Laos’ capital, Vientiane. After a night out, hostel staff found them unwell in their room.
Emergency Treatment in Thailand
Both young women sought medical assistance at their accommodation before being transported to separate hospitals in Thailand for life-saving treatment. Despite the medical efforts, Bianca’s condition deteriorated, and she tragically passed away. Holly remains on life support in a Thai hospital, with her family and friends holding onto hope for her recovery.
Heartfelt Statement from Bianca’s Family
On Thursday, Bianca’s family released a poignant statement confirming her passing:
“It is with the heaviest of hearts that we share the news that our beloved daughter and sister, Bianca Jones, has passed away. She was surrounded by love, and we are comforted by the knowledge that her incredible spirit touched so many lives during her time with us.
We want to express our deepest gratitude for the overwhelming support, love, and prayers we’ve received from across Australia. The kindness shown to our family during this unimaginable time has been truly humbling.
We kindly ask for privacy as we navigate through our grief and begin to heal. Thank you for respecting our family’s space.”
Remembering Bianca
Bianca attended Mentone Girls’ Grammar School and was an active member of the Beaumaris Football Club. Described by those who knew her as vibrant and full of life, she was on a journey to experience the world alongside her close friend, Holly.
Her family and friends are devastated by the sudden loss. Before her passing, they expressed their disbelief and heartbreak:
“Our beautiful Bianca was on a dream getaway with her best friend Holly. They were filled with joy and had such incredible adventures ahead of them, traveling through Asia. We are here by Bianca’s bedside praying for her. Please respect our privacy at this difficult time.”
Holly’s Fight for Survival
Holly Bowles, who was traveling with Bianca, is currently on life support. A former student of Beaumaris Secondary College, Holly is also known for her involvement with the Beaumaris Football Club. Colleagues from Frank’s Melbourne café in Cheltenham, where Holly worked, described her as an “absolute star.”
One staff member shared:
“She’s a bundle of joy—to know her is to love her. We’re just praying for the family. She’s just a loyal, caring, sweet person. We value her so much as a friend as well as a colleague.”
A Growing Concern: Methanol Poisoning in Southeast Asia
Bianca’s death marks the fourth linked to suspected mass methanol poisoning in Laos within a week. Two women from Denmark and a man from the United States have also died after consuming drinks believed to be laced with the deadly chemical.
Methanol is sometimes illegally added to alcoholic beverages as a cheaper alternative to ethanol, the standard alcohol used in drinks. Consuming even small amounts of methanol can be fatal. Symptoms of methanol poisoning include abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, difficulty breathing, blindness, and seizures.
There have been reports of methanol poisoning incidents in Vang Vieng, Laos. Travelers have taken to social media to warn others. In a Facebook group dedicated to backpacking in the area, one tourist shared:
“Urgent, please avoid all local spirits. Our group stayed in Vang Vieng and we drank free shots offered by one of the bars. Six of us who drank from the place are in hospital currently with methanol poisoning.”
Official Responses and Warnings
The Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) confirmed they are providing consular assistance to two Australians in Thailand:
“Our thoughts are with them at this deeply distressing time. Owing to our privacy obligations, we are unable to provide further comment.”
Travelers are urged to exercise caution when consuming alcoholic beverages in countries where methanol poisoning has been reported. It’s recommended to avoid homemade or unregulated spirits and to be wary of unusually cheap alcoholic drinks.
Community Mourning and Support
The Beaumaris community, including the football club and local establishments, are rallying around the families of Bianca and Holly. Messages of support and condolences are pouring in as friends and acquaintances grapple with the tragic news.
Our deepest sympathies go out to the families and friends of Bianca Jones and all those affected by this tragedy. We hope for Holly Bowles’ recovery and urge travelers to stay safe and vigilant.
If you have experiences or information related to this incident, or tips on staying safe while traveling abroad, please share your thoughts in the comments below.