Bianca Jones, 19, tragically passes away while her best friend, Holly Bowles, fights for her life in hospital after suspected methanol poisoning in Laos

A tragic incident has unfolded in Laos, where 19-year-old Melbourne teen Bianca Jones has died after suspected methanol poisoning. Her close friend, Holly Bowles, remains on life support following the ordeal. The two young women had been travelling abroad when they were both struck by the suspected poisoning. While Jones succumbed to the effects, Bowles is still fighting for her life in hospital.

The pair’s journey took a devastating turn when they were reportedly poisoned by methanol, a highly toxic substance often found in contaminated alcoholic drinks. Details about how the poisoning occurred remain unclear, but authorities are investigating the circumstances surrounding the incident.

Family and friends have expressed their heartbreak over the loss of Bianca Jones, describing her as a vibrant and caring young woman with a bright future ahead. The news of her death has sent shockwaves through the Melbourne community, where she was well-known and loved by many.

Holly Bowles’ condition is said to be critical, and her family is holding out hope for her recovery, despite the grim circumstances. Her loved ones have rallied around her, offering support as they await further updates on her condition.

Both families are working closely with Australian diplomats and local authorities in Laos to understand the full extent of the situation and ensure that justice is served. The Australian embassy has confirmed it is providing consular assistance to the families involved.

The incident has raised concerns over the safety of tourists in countries where regulations surrounding alcohol production and consumption are not always strictly enforced. Methanol poisoning is a known risk, particularly when illegal or unregulated alcohol is consumed, and it can have fatal consequences if not treated promptly.

As the investigation continues, the families of Jones and Bowles have called for greater awareness and safety measures to be put in place for travellers, especially those venturing to regions where unregulated alcohol production is prevalent.

The tragic loss of Bianca Jones has left a void in her family and the wider community, and her story serves as a somber reminder of the dangers that can lurk when travelling abroad. For now, the focus remains on supporting Holly Bowles and hoping for her recovery as the investigation into the poisoning continues.