Australia’s Morton-Bowles and Jones families faced a tragic ordeal when their 19-year-old daughters, Holly Morton-Bowles and Bianca Jones, traveled to Laos last year and tragically died from methanol poisoning. The families are now warning other parents against allowing their children to visit the region due to safety concerns, labeling the country as “corrupt.”
During their trip to Vang Vieng in November, Holly and Bianca, along with four other tourists, fell ill from methanol consumption at the Nana Backpackers hostel. Despite receiving critical care in Thailand, the girls couldn’t survive the poisoning. The parents have criticized the handling of the investigation, claiming that the Laotian authorities have not taken the tragedy seriously.
Expressing frustration over the lack of progress in the investigation, the families emphasized the need for accountability and justice for their daughters. They believe that the deaths of the young women should not be forgotten or overlooked. Despite assurances from the Lao Government regarding the investigation, the families feel that little action has been taken, with officials avoiding discussions about the incident.
On a televised interview on “60 Minutes,” the parents shared their disappointment in the lack of communication and cooperation from Laotian officials, who have not engaged with the families or provided meaningful updates on the investigation. The families are determined to seek answers and closure regarding the tragic deaths of Holly and Bianca.