Tributes have been paid to the “beautiful, kind and loving” British tourist Simone White, one of six people to die in a suspected mass methanol poisoning in Laos.
The six died after allegedly being served drinks laced with methanol in Vang Vieng, a town popular with backpackers. These include the Australian teenagers Bianca Jones and Holly Bowles, both 19, an American man and two Danish women aged 19 and 20.
In a statement, White’s parents said they were “devastated by the loss of our beautiful, kind and loving daughter Simone”.
“Simone was one of a kind and had the most wonderful energy and spark for life. She was a soul who gave so much to so many and was loved by her family, friends and colleagues,” they said.
“Simone has been taken from us too soon. She will be sorely missed by her brother, grandmother and entire family. Our hearts go out to all other families who have been affected by this terrible tragedy.”
White, from Orpington in south-east London, was described as a talented lawyer with a bright future, in a tribute from her employer, the global law firm Squire Patton Boggs.
“It is with deep sadness that we mourn the tragic passing of our dear friend and colleague Simone White,” the company said. “Simone was a talented colleague with a bright future ahead of her and someone who epitomised our firm values. She will be sincerely missed.”
A number of people have been detained in the case, but no charges have yet been filed, according to Associated Press.