- Bianca Jones, 19, has died abroad
- Holly Bowles continues to fight for life
Melbourne teenager Bianca Jones has died in hospital after drinking poisoned alcohol during the trip of a lifetime with her best friend in Laos.
The 19-year-old is the fourth person to die in an alleged mass poisoning after drinks were mixed with methanol and served to guests at the Nana Backpackers Hostel.
Mrs Jones had been on holiday with her best friend Holly Bowles – who is still fighting for her life in hospital – when they both fell ill.
Earlier on Thursday, the US State Department confirmed the death of a US citizen, aged 56, in the popular party town of Vang Vieng in Laos.
Two Danish women in their 20s are also believed to have died.
Mrs Jones’ devastated family confirmed her death in a statement.
“It is with the deepest of our hearts that we share the news that our beloved daughter and sister, Bianca Jones, has passed away,” the statement said.
“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.
Melbourne teenager Bianca Jones (pictured) has died in hospital after drinking poisoned alcohol during the trip of a lifetime with her best friend in Laos
Australian best friends Holly Bowles (left) and Bianca Jones (right) are pictured
“We would like to express our deepest gratitude for the overwhelming support, love and prayers we have received from across Australia.
“The kindness shown to our family during this unimaginable time is truly humbling.
“We kindly ask for privacy as we navigate our grief and begin to heal. Thank you for respecting our family’s space.
‘With sincere appreciation, Mark, Michelle and Lachlan Jones.’
Ms Jones and Ms Bowles had booked a four-night stay at the Nana Backpackers Hostel, where they had been drinking and playing cards at the bar on the night they were poisoned, before reportedly heading to Jaidee’s nearby party bar.
CCTV footage from inside the hostel shows the girls being transported to a local clinic on the back of a motorcycle driven by a hotel staff member after they failed to check out of their room in time.
They were then rushed to separate hospitals in Udon Thani and Bangkok in neighboring Thailand.
Ms Jones’ family previously said they hoped police would get to the bottom of the alleged alcohol poisoning.
“Our family has been overwhelmed by the messages of love and support coming from across Australia,” they told the Herald Sun.
‘This is every parent’s nightmare and we want to ensure no other family is forced to endure the pain we are going through.
“We hope that the authorities can get to the bottom of what happened as soon as possible.”
More to come…