British Tourist Dies from Methanol Poisoning in Laos

Simone White, a 28-year-old British tourist, has died from methanol poisoning after consuming free shots at a bar in Vang Vieng, Laos, marking the fifth fatality linked to this incident. White, along with several others, fell ill after drinking the shots, which have been linked to at least four previous deaths, including Australian Bianca Jones and two Danish women. Friends of White have cautioned travelers in a now-deleted Facebook post to avoid local spirits, citing the health risks associated with the drinks. The bartender at the hostel where the shots were served denies that the alcohol was responsible for the poisonings, claiming it was sourced from certified distributors. At least seven other individuals remain hospitalized due to suspected methanol poisoning. Authorities are investigating the circumstances surrounding these tragic incidents as concerns grow about the safety of alcoholic beverages in the region.