COLOMBO: A dream trip turned into a tragedy for two young travellers after a suspected pesticide poisoning at a hostel in Sri Lanka.
Ebony McIntosh, a 24-year-old from the UK, and Nadine Raguse, 26, from Germany, were staying at Miracle Colombo City hostel when they suddenly fell ill. According to Sri Lankan police, the hostel had been fumigated for bedbugs, and investigators suspect the pesticides may have caused their deaths.
McIntosh was rushed to hospital on Saturday, suffering from vomiting, nausea, and breathing difficulties. Sadly, she died within hours. Authorities have yet to confirm Raguse’s cause of death, but investigations are ongoing.
Sri Lanka Police spokesperson Buddhika Manatunga confirmed that the hostel is now closed indefinitely while experts determine whether the pesticides were responsible. An autopsy will take place once McIntosh’s family arrives in Sri Lanka on Monday.
McIntosh’s family described her as an adventurous spirit who had planned this trip for months. She had arrived in Sri Lanka on January 28, eager to explore South Asia.
The UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) is now working with local authorities to provide support to her grieving family.
This tragedy raises serious concerns about safety regulations in budget accommodations. Pesticide poisoning is a real risk, especially when proper precautions aren’t taken.
For now, the hostel remains closed, and travellers are urged to be cautious about fumigation practices in accommodations worldwide.
