A second Melbourne teenager, Holly Bowles, has tragically passed away after being on life support due to methanol poisoning from contaminated drinks in Laos. This brings the confirmed death toll to six, following the earlier death of Bowles' friend, Bianca Jones, along with several other victims, including two Danish women, an American tourist, and a British woman.

Bowles, 19, had been receiving treatment in a Bangkok hospital after falling critically ill in the tourist town of Vang Vieng. Her family confirmed her death in a statement, expressing their sorrow. "It is with broken hearts that we say our beautiful girl Holly is now at peace. We find comfort in knowing that Holly brought so much joy to so many people," the family said.

The poisoning incident has left at least 14 people seriously ill in Vang Vieng, a small town known for attracting backpackers. The deaths of Bowles and Jones, both 19, have led to an outpouring of grief in their Melbourne community, with local support rallying behind their families.

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese expressed his condolences, calling the event "beyond sad." "This should have been a trip filled with joy and wonderful memories. My thoughts are with her family and friends," he said.

Foreign Minister Penny Wong confirmed that the federal government would continue to support the families and collaborate with local authorities on the investigation.

Authorities in Laos have detained the owner of the hostel where Bowles and Jones stayed before falling ill. The hostel initially stated that the poisoned drinks did not come from its bar.

Methanol, a clear and odorless liquid, is sometimes illegally added to alcoholic drinks in countries with relaxed liquor regulations. Even small amounts of methanol can be fatal, as it breaks down in the body into toxic compounds that attack vital organs.

Following the tragedy, the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade updated its travel advice for Laos, urging caution, particularly with spirit-based drinks like cocktails.

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