Australian families criticize expected Laos charges over teen deaths
7 reported2 unconfirmed
The families of two Australian teenagers who died from methanol poisoning in Laos have criticized the charges they expect Lao authorities to announce. Australian tourists Bianca Jones and Holly Morton-Bowles, both 19, were among six foreigners killed by tainted alcohol at a tourist hostel in Vang Vieng in November 2024. The other victims were an American man, a British woman, and two Danish women. According to information received by the families, the penalties for those accused could be up to a year in jail and a fine of about 1,600 Australian dollars. Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong expressed frustration that authorities were not pursuing the most serious charges. An announcement was expected at the Ministry of Public Security in Vientiane, but no information was immediately available. The Australian government dispatched an envoy to Laos to convey objections and reinforce expectations for an investigation.
What’s reported
Bianca Jones and Holly Morton-Bowles, both 19, died from methanol poisoning in Laos in November 2024.
They were among six foreigners killed by tainted alcohol at a Nana Backpacker Hostel in Vang Vieng.
The other victims were an American man, a British woman, and two Danish women.
Families said expected penalties are up to a year in jail and a fine of about 1,600 Australian dollars.
Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong said she was "deeply frustrated and bitterly disappointed" that the most serious charges were not being pursued.
An announcement was expected at the Ministry of Public Security in Vientiane but no information was immediately available.
Australian officials summoned Laos' ambassador to Canberra and dispatched an envoy to Laos.
Open questions
How many people are due to be charged and what specific charges they will face.
Whether the expected penalties are final or subject to change.
Key figures
Bianca Jones (deceased Australian tourist, age 19)
Holly Morton-Bowles (deceased Australian tourist, age 19)
Mark Jones (father of Bianca Jones)
Michelle Jones (mother of Bianca Jones)
Shaun Bowles (father of Holly Morton-Bowles)
Penny Wong (Australian Foreign Minister)
Sources: abcnews.com
