Four tourists—one American, two Danes, and one Australian—died in Laos after consuming contaminated alcohol. Reports indicate several individuals fell ill in a town popular with backpackers.

The only publicly identified victim is 19-year-old Australian Bianca Jones.

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced in Parliament that Jones died after being evacuated for treatment in a Thai hospital. A 19-year-old friend remains hospitalized in Thailand.

Albanese expressed sympathy, stating, “This is every parent’s worst fear,” and offered condolences to Jones’ family and support for her hospitalized friend, Holly Bowles.

Holly Bowles’ father, Shaun Bowles, thanked supporters for their help but requested privacy to focus on his daughter, who remains critically ill and on life support.

Australian media reported Jones was the fourth foreign tourist fatality linked to the tainted alcohol.

A Thai police official, Phattanawong Chanphon, stated that an autopsy attributed Jones’ death to methanol poisoning from counterfeit liquor, citing high methanol levels causing brain swelling.

Counterfeit alcohol is a known problem in Laos, prompting warnings from the Australian and British governments.

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention identifies methanol as a toxic industrial solvent, pesticide, and fuel source.

While the U.S. Department of State didn’t directly respond to inquiries, it confirmed providing consular assistance and stated that local Laotian authorities are investigating.

Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong urged conversations about risks and preventative measures to avoid similar tragedies.

The Associated Press and Reuters contributed to this report.