Laos methanol poisoning charges 'slap in face' for families
Families of victims in the Laos methanol poisoning case say weak charges and a finding that blame cannot be determined are a slap in the face. Six tourists died in Vang Vieng in November 2024 after free shots. A distillery owner faces limited business-related charges—not counts tied to the deaths.
Key Takeaways
- Six tourists died after free shots at Nana Backpacker Hostel in Vang Vieng in November 2024.
- Laos says it cannot determine cause or individual blame because no autopsies were conducted.
- A distillery owner faces charges for harmful food sales and an illegal business, not the deaths.
- Australia raised Laos travel advice; the UK Foreign Office called the wait painful for families.
- Simone White's brother called the outcome a slap in the face after methanol toxicity appeared on her death certificate.
Simone White, 28, from Orpington in south-east London, was among six people who died after drinking free shots thought to be tainted with methanol at the Nana Backpacker Hostel. Two Australians, two Danish citizens and an American also died. Trainee lawyer Simone and friend Bethany Clarke were among about 100 guests given the shots.
They felt unwell the next day. Simone was put on life support before she died. Medical documents seen by BBC Newsbeat state methanol was found in Bethany's blood. For more alerts and follow-ups, see our Fintech & Crypto Alerts hub.
Why are families calling the outcome a slap in the face?
Last week Laos authorities said they could not determine if the deaths "were caused by the actions of any individual or by any particular cause, because no autopsies were conducted." Zak White, Simone's brother, told BBC Newsbeat he found that conclusion "pretty ridiculous," noting her Laos death certificate lists "methanol toxicity" among causes of death.
"For them to say there's not really enough evidence, I think for me and my parents, it's a bit of a slap in the face, really," Zak said. Bethany said she is "not expecting much" from the Laos legal system even though the case will remain open for 15 years.
Australian relatives voiced similar anger. Holly Morton-Bowles' father, Shaun Bowles, said the charges did not reflect the seriousness of the case. Bianca Jones' mother, Michelle, said it felt "like their lives didn't even matter."
What charges were brought over the methanol poisoning?
A distillery owner faces charges over the sale of harmful food products and operating an illegal business. BBC reporting says those counts collectively carry penalties of up to one year in jail and a fine of about £829 (US$1,100). None directly relate to the six deaths.
Laos authorities confirmed officials found "excessive levels of methanol" in vodka produced at the site. Earlier, 10 people charged with destruction of evidence received suspended sentences and fines of $185 (£135)—which Zak called an "absolute joke."
Denmark's foreign ministry, citing Laos authorities, said the case stays open for 15 years and more serious charges such as negligent homicide remain possible if proof is sufficient.
How have governments responded to the Laos case?
Australia said it was "deeply frustrated and bitterly disappointed" more serious charges were not pursued. Canberra summoned Laos' ambassador and raised Smartraveller advice to "exercise a high degree of caution" over crime, methanol poisoning risk, and justice-system transparency.
A UK Foreign Office spokesperson acknowledged bereaved families' "long and painful wait for answers" and said the latest update was "undoubtedly a source of further grief and frustration." Officials said Britain expects "robust action" against those responsible.
Methanol is a poisonous, colourless liquid sometimes mixed and sold illegally as alcohol. Early symptoms can include vomiting, poor judgement, loss of balance and drowsiness; vision problems 12–48 hours later are a red-flag warning.