Melbourne teen Bianca Jones dies after suspected methanol poisoning in Laos

Bianca Jones dies in Thai hospital; her best friend still fighting for life.

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Bianca Jones, a 19-year-old from Melbourne, has passed away at a hospital in Thailand a week after falling critically ill in Laos, where she and her best friend, Holly Bowles, were suspected victims of methanol poisoning.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese confirmed Jones's death on Thursday, sending condolences to her grieving family. "Our first thoughts at this moment are with her family and friends who are grieving a terrible and cruel loss," he said in parliament.

Jones's family released a statement saying, "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."

The two young women had been on a holiday in Vang Vieng, Laos, when they fell seriously ill. While Jones tragically passed away, Bowles remains in critical condition at a Thai hospital.

Jones’s family expressed their gratitude for the overwhelming support from Australia during this difficult time. "The kindness shown to our family during this unimaginable time has been truly humbling," they said.

A US Department of State spokesperson confirmed the death of an American in the same town, but did not link the death to methanol poisoning. The Danish Ministry of Foreign Affairs also confirmed two deaths in Laos, though it did not attribute them to poisoning.

Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan extended her sympathy, saying, "This is just heartbreaking to have your beautiful, young adults head off on an exciting adventure... only for it to end in these awful, tragic circumstances."

Jones’s parents, who are still seeking clarity on the cause of their daughter’s death, were praised for their courage during the tragedy.

Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong said that drink spiking and methanol poisoning were tragically common in many parts of the world. "I would say to parents, to young people, please have a conversation about risks, please inform yourselves, please let’s work together to ensure this tragedy doesn’t happen again,” Wong said.

New Zealand’s Foreign Ministry issued a warning to travellers about the risk of methanol poisoning in Laos, advising caution when consuming alcohol, particularly mixed drinks and cocktails.

The two Australian teens had been staying at the Nana Backpacker Hostel in Vang Vieng, a popular destination for young tourists seeking adventure and nightlife. Duong Duc Toan, manager of the hostel, confirmed that the women had been unwell after failing to check out as scheduled. They were later transported to a hospital in Thailand for urgent medical treatment.

Jones’s death has sent shockwaves through the Australian community, with Albaneze describing the incident as "beyond sad" and offering condolences to the families of both women.