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Laos says it cannot determine cause of 2024 tourist deaths linked to methanol
Laotian officials stated they lack evidence to establish the cause of six tourist deaths in November 2024 because autopsies were not performed. The ministry reported finding excessive methanol levels in vodka from the distillery involved.
Jul 18, 5:30 AM·1m read1 source
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Laotian officials stated they cannot determine the cause of six tourist deaths in November 2024 because autopsies were not conducted on the bodies. " Authorities found excessive levels of methanol in vodka produced by the distillery involved.
Charges and responses The distillery owner faces charges for selling food products harmful to health and operating an illegal business, but not for the deaths. Those charges carry penalties of up to one year in jail and a fine of £829. The Australian government said it was "deeply frustrated and bitterly disappointed" that more serious charges had not been pursued.
Australia's foreign ministry summoned Laos' ambassador in Canberra.
Background on the incident The victims included a 28-year-old Briton, two 19-year-old Australians, two Danish citizens aged 20 and 21, and a 57-year-old U.S. national. The deaths occurred in Vang Vieng after the tourists consumed free shots at a backpacker hostel.
Ten people connected to the hostel were charged earlier this year with destroying evidence and received suspended sentences and fines of $185 each. The British government launched a campaign last week warning tourists of methanol risks.
