Parents of Brit who died from 'methanol poisoning' after 'drinking free shots' on holiday release heartbreaking tribute
The family of the British woman that died in Laos have released an emotional statement following her passing.
Simone White, from Kent, was one of six to have died from suspected methanol poisoning after 'drinking free shots' in the town of Vang Vieng, Laos.
The other five people were two Australian teenagers, an American and two Danish tourists, with the Foreign Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) confirming White's death yesterday (21 November).
A Foreign Office spokersperson said: "We are supporting the family of a British woman who has died in Laos, and we are in contact with the local authorities."
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Following her tragic death, White's parents have released a heartfelt statement about their late daughter, who worked at a prestigious law firm in London.
"Simone was one of a kind and had the most wonderful energy and spark for life." they said. "She was a soul who gave so much to so many and was loved by her family, friends and colleagues.
"Simone has been taken from us too soon, she will be sorely missed by her brother, grandmother and entire family.
"Our hearts go out to all other families who have been affected by this terrible tragedy."
White's brother previously revealed that the family were undergoing a 'horrific' time after losing an 'absolutely lovely' and 'brilliant' sister, as per The Daily Mail.
The manager and owner of the Nana Backpacker Hostel have since been detained.
An officer at the town's Tourism Police office stated that no charges have been filed, but a 'number of people' were detained in connection with the investigation.
The hostel hasn't ceased operations, but it is not accepting new guests, with staff there confirming that the manager and owner were among those taken in for questioning.
The FCDO also said it was in touch with local authorities about British nationals affected.
It is believed that those poisoned were served drinks that contained methanol, as it is used by certain bars as a cheaper alternative to ethanol, despite its use potentially leading to poisoning or death.
The hostel manager revealed that staff were told by other guests that some women were unwell after they failed to check out as planned on 13 November, and they arranged transport to a hospital.
He said they had joined over 100 other guests for free shots of Lao vodka offered by the hostel two days before, however, he further claimed that no other guest had reported any issues, and that the alleged victims had then gone out for a night out, returning in the early hours of the morning.
It is not known when the contaminated drinks were served.
A local police investigation into the suspected poisoning is ongoing.
Topics: World News, UK News, Travel
Joshua Nair