A suspected mass methanol poisoning in a hostel in Laos has claimed the life of Melbourne teenager Bianca Jones, 19. The tragedy comes in the wake of the deaths of an American and two Danish tourists, while 14 others remain severely ill. Bianca passed away in a Thai hospital, surrounded by her family, as her best friend Holly Bowles continues to fight for her life in another hospital in Bangkok.

Bianca’s family shared their heartbreak in a statement to the Herald Sun, nearly a week after her hospitalisation on the Laos-Thai border. “It is with the heaviest of hearts that we share the news that our beloved daughter and sister, Bianca Jones, has passed away,” they wrote. “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 family also extended their gratitude for the overwhelming support they have received from across Australia.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced Bianca’s death during Question Time in Canberra, expressing deep sympathy for her family. “We’ve received the very sad confirmation from the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade that tragically, Bianca Jones has lost her life,” he said. “Our first thoughts are with her family and friends who are grieving a terrible and cruel loss. This is every parent’s worst fear—a nightmare that no one should have to endure.” The Prime Minister also remained hopeful for Holly Bowles’s recovery, noting that she is receiving care in Bangkok, surrounded by loved ones.

Bianca and Holly were on a backpacking adventure through Southeast Asia, a rite of passage for many young Australians. They arrived at the Nana Backpacker Hostel in Vang Vieng, a popular party destination 130 km north of the Laotian capital, Vientiane. The two enjoyed the hostel’s generous happy hour, which included free vodka and whisky, before heading out to explore the town’s nightlife. The next day, neither left their dorm and eventually requested to be taken to a hospital. Holly was transferred from Vientiane to Bangkok, while Bianca was taken to Udon Thani in Thailand, where she ultimately passed away.

The manager of the Nana Backpacker Hostel has denied that the poisoning occurred at his venue, stating that no other guests reported illness and that the hostel strictly monitors substances sold on its premises to ensure guest safety. However, Thai police have confirmed Bianca’s death was due to methanol poisoning. Australian authorities are currently working alongside their U.S. counterparts to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident, which has already claimed the lives of four tourists, with several others in critical condition.

Australian Foreign Affairs Minister Penny Wong also weighed in, expressing that Bianca’s death could have been avoided and issuing a stark warning about the dangers of drink spiking and methanol poisoning. “I want to offer my heartfelt sympathies to Bianca’s family, and Holly’s family remains in our thoughts during this incredibly difficult time,” Minister Wong said. “Drink spiking and methanol poisoning are all too common in many parts of the world. I urge parents and young people to have conversations about these risks. Let’s work together to prevent such tragedies from happening again.”