Two tourists tragically lost their lives while vacationing in Sri Lanka, raising concerns about the safety conditions at their accommodation. The victims, Ebony McIntosh, a 24-year-old British influencer, and Nadine Raguse, a 27-year-old German woman, both fell seriously ill after staying at the Miracle Colombo City Hostel in Colombo.
On February 1, McIntosh and Raguse were rushed to a local hospital suffering from severe symptoms, including vomiting, nausea, and difficulty breathing. Unfortunately, both women passed away shortly after their arrival at the hospital, leaving their families and friends in shock.
While the exact cause of death has not yet been confirmed, local reports suggest that the women may have been affected by chemical poisoning. It is believed that the adjacent room in the hostel had been treated with phosphine, a toxic substance commonly used for fumigating against bedbugs. This room had been sealed off for 72 hours following the treatment on January 30, raising questions about the potential exposure of guests to harmful chemicals.
In response to the incident, authorities have ordered the closure of the Miracle Colombo City Hostel pending further investigation. The tragic news has prompted an outpouring of grief, particularly from McIntosh’s family. Her sister, India McIntosh, shared heartfelt tributes on social media, expressing her sorrow and the profound impact her sister had on her life. India described Ebony as an inspiration and lamented the loss of her sister’s vibrant spirit just days into her planned travels across South Asia.
To assist with the costs of bringing Ebony’s body back home, India has initiated a GoFundMe campaign. The fundraiser has surpassed its initial goal, raising over £44,000 (approximately C$65,373) as of February 6. India expressed her heartbreak over the situation, describing it as a nightmare and emphasizing the family’s desire to be with Ebony during this difficult time.
Ebony had embarked on her journey from Heathrow Airport with dreams of exploring South Asia, meticulously planning her trip in advance. Her family highlighted the excitement she felt about her adventures, which were tragically cut short by her sudden illness.
As investigations continue into the circumstances surrounding the deaths of McIntosh and Raguse, many are left questioning the safety protocols in place at hostels and accommodations frequented by travelers. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers that can arise from improper handling of hazardous substances in hospitality settings, prompting calls for stricter regulations to ensure the safety of guests.