Greta Marie Otteson, a 33-year-old British woman, and her 36-year-old South African fiancé, Els Arno Quinton, were tragically found dead in their hotel room in Vietnam. Reports suggest the couple consumed limoncello that was allegedly contaminated with toxic levels of methanol.
The pair had been spending Christmas in the coastal city of Hoi An and had joyfully announced their engagement just days before their untimely passing through a heartfelt YouTube video.
Greta and Els had relocated to Vietnam in February of the previous year.
Authorities believe that the couple ordered ‘homemade’ limoncello from a local restaurant that could have been laced with methanol.
“The police forensics confirmed that the limoncello, which had been delivered to the couple, was the source,” a family insider told The Times.
Greta had texted her family, describing what she believed to be the “worst hangover ever” and mentioned experiencing “black spots” in her vision.
The couple, however, decided to sleep it off.
“A local bar owner and a fantastic friend called over and wanted to take them to hospital but they refused,” the source told The Times. “Sadly I think it was too late by then.”
It was mere hours later that Greta and Els were found dead in separate rooms.
Officials said: “There were no signs of ransacking at the scene. The victims’ belongings and phones were untouched.”
Methanol poisoning has been reported in the past in certain countries of East Asia.
It is an industrial chemical found in antifreeze and windscreen washer fluid similar to ethanol. Methanol is tasteless, odorless, and highly flammable.
It is toxic and just 25ml are enough to kill someone.
When methanol is consumed, it begins to affect the body as it is processed by the liver. During this process, the metabolism produces toxic by-products such as formaldehyde, formate, and formic acid, which can damage nerves and organs. This can result in severe consequences, including blindness, coma, or even death.
Greta’s heartbroken parents shared their grief, saying, “Greta and Arno were experienced travelers who had explored the world together. They had found their perfect home and were incredibly happy.”
“Our priority now is to hold those responsible for supplying the toxic alcohol accountable for Greta and Arno’s deaths,” Greta’s father, Paul, told The Times. “In time, we will organize a memorial service to honor them both.”
He also noted, “Arno’s family expressed a wish for them to be together, and we wholeheartedly agree.” fiancé
Our deepest condolences go out to all who are mourning this devastating loss. fiancé
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