A third Australian also fell ill after a suspected mass methanol poisoning in Laos that has claimed six lives, Guardian Australia has confirmed. Melburnians , both 19, died in hospital in Thailand after the tragedy, which also claimed the lives of people from Denmark, the UK and the US. Guardian Australia can reveal that a third Australian, a dual national, also fell ill as part of the suspected poisoning.
It is understood they are in a stable condition and being supported by the department of foreign affairs and trade (Dfat). Dfat said in a statement that it was “continuing to provide consular assistance to the families of two Australians who have tragically passed away in Thailand. “Our thoughts are with the families at this deeply distressing time.
“Australian officials in Laos and Thailand are working closely with local authorities. Investigations are underway and we are offering any assistance we can provide.” Guardian Australia understands the bodies of the Melbourne women could be returned in the coming days.
“They were best friends in the best days of their lives,” prime minister Anthony Albanese told parliament on Monday. “There is no crueller arithmetic than adding up the years not lived, the potential not fulfilled, the dreams not lived or that might have been,” he said. Jones and Bowles were on holiday in Laos when they became ill along with a dozen other tourists in the popular town of Vang Vieng.
They failed to check out at the Nana Backpacker Ho.
