The family of British lawyer Simone White, 28, has paid tribute to their “brilliant” daughter after she tragically died from suspected methanol poisoning while on holiday in Laos. Simone, from Orpington, Kent, was among six victims of the poisoning, which is believed to have been caused by tainted alcohol served in the backpacker hotspot of Vang Vieng.

Her brother described the past days as “horrific,” expressing deep sorrow over the loss of Simone, who he called an “absolutely lovely” and “brilliant” sister. Neighbours in Orpington echoed the sentiment, recalling Simone as a kind and sensible person who had her entire life ahead of her.

Tragic Incident

Simone reportedly fell ill last week after consuming free shots offered at a local bar. Methanol, a toxic form of alcohol sometimes illicitly added to drinks, is suspected to be the cause of the poisoning. The NHS warns that even a small amount of methanol can cause severe poisoning, including blindness or death.

Simone’s friend, Bethany Clarke, who was also hospitalized, previously issued a warning to travellers via a Laos backpacking Facebook group. Bethany described the incident as devastating, saying, “Six of us drank from the same place and are now in hospital with methanol poisoning.” She urged travellers to avoid local spirits entirely.

Six Lives Lost

Simone’s death follows that of 19-year-old Australian Bianca Jones, who succumbed to methanol poisoning last week. Holly Bowles, also 19 and a close friend of Bianca, became the sixth victim after passing away in hospital. The other fatalities include two Danish women in their 20s and a 56-year-old American man.

Investigation Underway

Authorities in Laos are investigating the incident, with the owner and manager of the Nana Backpacker Hostel, where several victims had stayed, detained for questioning. The hostel manager, Duong Duc Toan, claimed the drinks were prepared using alcohol from certified distributors and were mixed with ice and Coke Zero. However, police are exploring the possibility that tainted alcohol entered the supply chain.

In response, local officials have ordered bars and hostels in Vang Vieng to cease selling alcohol until further notice.

Heartfelt Tributes

A neighbour in Orpington said, “Simone was an absolutely lovely girl from a wonderful family. She was very sensible and had so much ahead of her. It’s a tragedy and brings home how these things can happen to anyone.”

Simone’s family, devastated by the loss, has yet to speak publicly but is being supported by loved ones and the local community.

A Sobering Warning

The Foreign, Commonwealth, and Development Office (FCDO) has reiterated warnings about consuming alcohol in countries where regulations are less stringent. Travellers are urged to avoid accepting free drinks and to be cautious about the source of alcoholic beverages.