PM Albanese expresses heartbreak over tragic death of Australian teenager in Laos
A Melbourne teenager, Bianca Jones, has tragically passed away from suspected methanol poisoning.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese described Bianca’s death as “a nightmare that no one should have to endure,” as he paid tribute to her in federal parliament.
Bianca, aged 19, was on a holiday trip in Laos with her friend Holly Bowles, also 19, who is currently fighting for her life in a Bangkok hospital.
Albanese reflected on the joyous time that Bianca’s trip should have been, filled with fond memories for the future that lay ahead of her.
Bianca’s family confirmed her passing in a statement to the Herald Sun, mentioning that she was surrounded by love in her final moments.
Both teenagers had fallen ill along with a dozen other tourists while holidaying in Vang Vieng, Laos, where they had been staying at the Nana Backpacker Hostel.
Reports suggest that the group had consumed free shots of Lao vodka offered by the hostel, leading to the tragic incident of mass poisoning.
Ms. Jones is one of the victims in this unfortunate event, which also claimed the lives of two Danish women and an American.
Foreign Minister Penny Wong emphasized the need for awareness about drink spiking and methanol poisoning, hoping to prevent such tragedies in the future.
As the families of the Australian girls receive consular assistance, the authorities are investigating the circumstances surrounding this devastating event.
