23 February 2025

British Woman, 24, Dies Mysteriously in Sri Lanka After Hostel Fumigation—Family Devastated!

Ebony McIntosh

In a heart-wrenching turn of events, 24-year-old British traveler Ebony McIntosh from Derby embarked on her dream journey across South Asia, only for it to be tragically cut short in Sri Lanka. Just four days into her adventure, Ebony fell gravely ill at the Miracle Colombo City Hostel, experiencing severe vomiting, nausea, and breathing difficulties. Despite being rushed to a local hospital, she passed away within hours on February 1, 2025.

The hostel had recently fumigated a neighboring room for bed bugs, leading authorities to investigate the possibility of poisoning from toxic pesticides. A German tourist, 26-year-old Nadine Raguse, also staying at the hostel, suffered similar symptoms and tragically died as well. The hostel has since been closed pending further investigation.

Ebony’s family is devastated by the sudden loss. Her sister, India, expressed profound grief, stating, “To my Ebony, my beautiful sister, thank you, thank you for being my older sister, one better than I could’ve ever asked for… I am truly heartbroken, I can’t believe I am writing this, it feels like some nightmare I haven’t woken up from.”

In the wake of this tragedy, the family has launched a GoFundMe campaign collecting funds for travel expenses, emergency passports, and funeral costs, aiming to bring Ebony back home. The outpouring of support has been overwhelming, with the campaign raising over £44,500 to date.

As investigations continue, Ebony’s loved ones are left grappling with the sudden loss of a vibrant young woman who had so much more life to live. Her adventurous spirit and zest for life will be deeply missed by all who knew her.