Greta Marie Otteson, 33, from Wales, and her fiancé, South African Arno Els Quinton, 36, were found dead on Boxing Day at the Hoi An Silverbell Villa in Vietnam, which they ran. After a Christmas Eve dinner, two bottles of limoncello were delivered to their villa; Greta later messaged her parents about “black spots” and the “worst hangover ever.” Both died soon after.
Police concluded they were poisoned by methanol in homemade limoncello. A barman was charged in February for allegedly using used 70-degree medical alcohol mixed with water, lemon peel, and sugar to make the drink. The offence carries a possible 7–15 year prison sentence, and he remains detained while investigations continue.
A new BBC report says Greta’s parents, Paul and Susan, had visited on 24 November, tried free limoncello shots at “Good Morning Vietnam,” and then ordered bottles sent to the couple as a Christmas gift. They say the wait for answers has been “unbearable,” citing no updates or apology, and won’t lay the ashes to rest until those responsible are named and prosecuted; the ashes are currently at their home in Carmarthenshire.
Methanol—cheaper but highly toxic compared to ethanol—is found in products like antifreeze and fuel; ingestion can cause blindness or death. Authorities warn anyone suspecting methanol poisoning to seek immediate medical help, noting similar cases in the region.
