British couple found dead in Vietnam hotel after 'drinking contaminated limoncello'

General image of Limoncello liqueur
-Credit:Getty Images


A British couple were reportedly found dead at a Vietnam hotel 'after drinking contaminated limoncello'. Recently engaged Greta Marie Otteson, 33, and Arno Els Quinton, 36, went out for dinner on Christmas Eve.

They ordered two bottles of 'homemade' limoncello from another restaurant. According to a source close to the family, Ms Otteson contacted her parents on WhatsApp complaining of 'the worst hangover ever'.

She also reportedly told them she could see 'black spots' in her vision. It is understood the couple tried to 'sleep it off' and did not seek medical attention.

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A source told The Times: "A local bar owner and a fantastic friend called over and wanted to take them to hospital but they refused. Sadly I think it was too late by then." Ms Otteson's body was found by staff at the Hoi An Silverbell Villa on Boxing Day.

Mr Quinton's body was discovered in a nearby room, Mirror reports. Police have since launched an investigation into their deaths.

They are said to have found empty bottles of limoncello both inside their rooms. Tests concluded the couple both died of methanol poisoning, believed to be linked to the 'homemade' limoncello, according to investigators.

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A source close to the family said: "Police forensics established the limoncello, which had been delivered, was the source." It is unclear how methanol ended up inside the bottles.

Ms Otteson’s parent, Susan and Paul described their only child as 'beautiful'. They said: "Both Greta and Arno were experienced worldwide travellers. They found their perfect home and were incredibly happy with their life in Vietnam, planning for the future.

"The Vietnamese police have now confirmed that the cause of death was methanol poisoning, as verified by the autopsy results." Paul said the couple celebrated their engagement last month.

He said: "We were so happy she picked Arno. He was such a lovely boy. Arno was a great musician, composer and lyricist. They bought a second-hand bike and were so proud. Susan told Greta "make sure it’s red for Wales".

"They were a loving couple with their life ahead of them. The tributes we have had from around the world are unbelievable. Our aim is to bring the people who supplied the alcohol and killed Greta and Arno to justice."

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No arrests have been made in connection with their deaths. Paul added: "Our aim is to bring the people who supplied the alcohol and killed Greta and Arno to justice."

The Foreign Office said: "We are supporting the family of a British woman who has died in Vietnam and are in contact with the local authorities."