Laos authorities have identified three foreign nationals who died from suspected methanol poisoning after drinking tainted alcohol at a hostel in the town of Vang Vieng. Danish citizens Anne-Sofie Orkild Coyman, 20, and Freja Vennervald Sorensen, 21, along with American national James Louis Hutson, 57, were all staying at the Nana Backpackers Hostel when they fell ill. The deaths follow a similar incident the previous week, in which three other tourists, including a British citizen, also died from suspected methanol poisoning.

The two young Danish women were found unconscious on November 13 after a night out at a bar in the city, and despite being rushed to the hospital in Vientiane, they died shortly afterward. Medical officials cited sudden heart failure as the cause of death. Hutson, the American tourist, was found dead in his room the same day, with no visible signs of injury, and several empty drink glasses nearby. Local authorities have launched an investigation into the deaths, and the hostel has been closed for further inquiries. The Governor of Vang Vieng, Bounchan Malavong, has pledged to bring those responsible for the deaths to justice.

The deaths have cast a spotlight on the dangers of methanol, a toxic substance often found in bootleg alcohol. Medical experts warn that even small quantities of methanol, such as 25 millilitres, can be fatal. The Nana Hostel manager denied any wrongdoing, stating that the same drinks were served to over 100 guests that night, none of whom reported any issues. The local authorities have promised to ensure that all businesses in the area comply with the law to prevent further tragedies.

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