Sue White, the mother of a British lawyer who tragically passed away in Laos after consuming methanol-laced drinks, shared the harrowing 16-hour journey she endured to be by her daughter’s side. Simone White, 28, from Orpington, Kent, fell ill along with others in Vang Vieng, a popular traveler’s spot. Sue White, aged 61, arrived at the hospital just in time to see her daughter rushed into surgery. Unfortunately, Simone lost brain function and passed away on November 21.
Sue White described the flight from the UK as “horrendous” and recalled receiving a distressing call from the hospital before departure, informing her of the urgent need for her daughter’s brain surgery. The night of the incident, Simone and her friends reportedly drank six vodka shots at a local hostel before seeking medical help as their health deteriorated.
Authorities in Laos are holding multiple individuals in connection with Ms. White’s death and five other suspected poisonings. Simone worked at the law firm Squire Patton Boggs, specializing in general commercial, contentious, and non-contentious intellectual property law. Her mother issued a warning to other travelers, emphasizing the importance of being cautious with drinks. She noted Simone’s intelligence and education, highlighting that such tragedies can happen to anyone.
Laos, a popular destination for tourists, especially in places like Vang Vieng known for its party scene and adventure sports, has been relatively quiet about the case. The country operates under a one-party communist state with no organized opposition. The lack of information surrounding the incident has left many questions unanswered.
Sue White’s heartbreaking journey to be with her daughter in her final moments serves as a reminder of the dangers that can lurk in unexpected places. The loss of Simone White has left a void in the lives of her loved ones and a cautionary tale for travelers exploring unfamiliar territories. It is a tragic reminder that vigilance and awareness are crucial when venturing into new environments, especially in countries where regulations and safety standards may differ.
