In November 2024, 28-year-old British lawyer Simone White tragically passed away after consuming methanol-contaminated vodka shots while vacationing in Vang Vieng, Laos. Her mother, Sue White, has now revealed the poignant final text message she received from her daughter.
Simone and two friends checked into the Nana Backpackers Hostel on November 11, 2024. That evening, they were served six vodka shots mixed with Sprite from a local supermarket. Unbeknownst to them, the alcohol was tainted with methanol, a toxic substance. Simone was among six tourists who died from suspected methanol poisoning in the incident.
Upon learning of her daughter’s critical condition, Sue embarked on a grueling 16-hour journey from Kent to Laos. She arrived at the private Kasemrad International Hospital in Vientiane, where Simone was on life support. Faced with an unimaginable decision, Sue chose to remove the life support, as an inquest later revealed that Simone had suffered a fatal brain hemorrhage.
Reflecting on her daughter’s last communication, Sue shared on 60 Minutes Australia that Simone had texted her just a day before the tragic incident: “I’m having the best time, you know, it’s an absolutely fantastic holiday.” This message, filled with joy and excitement, was the final one Sue received from her daughter.
Bethany Clarke, one of Simone’s friends who also consumed the tainted shots, recounted the harrowing experience. She recalled watching the bartender pour the drinks from a bottle labeled as vodka. Shortly after, she experienced severe symptoms, stating: “You just physically can’t move. It’s like you are more or less paralysed.” Bethany was hospitalized but survived the ordeal.
This tragic event has prompted warnings to travelers about the dangers of consuming unregulated local alcohol in certain regions. Authorities continue to investigate the source of the methanol contamination to prevent such incidents in the future.