A tragic discovery was made in the Vietnamese coastal city of Hoi An on December 26, when a British woman and her South African fiancé were found dead in a holiday villa, local police have reported.
Greta Marie Otteson, 33, was found by staff lying unresponsive on a bed in a first-floor room at the Hoa Chuong villa, while her fiancé, 36-year-old Els Arno Quinton, was discovered in another room, locked from the inside.
According to authorities, the two were residing at the villa in the Cam Thanh commune, where they had registered for long-term temporary accommodation last summer.
The couple had been in Vietnam for several months, with Otteson working as a social media manager and Quinton pursuing his career as a musician and livestreamer.
The discovery was made at around 11:18 local time (04:18 GMT), with staff finding Otteson first. Both bodies were examined by police, who reported that there were no apparent signs of external injury.
The rooms where the bodies were found showed no evidence of forced entry, leading investigators to rule out burglary. Initial reports suggest that empty wine bottles were found near the scene, but no other immediate clues have been uncovered.
Police have stated that an investigation into the cause of death is ongoing, though no official cause has been confirmed. Local authorities are conducting a thorough inquiry, with further tests likely to take place.
The UK Foreign Office has confirmed that it is in contact with local authorities and is providing assistance to the family of Otteson during this difficult time.
A spokesperson stated: “We are supporting the family of a British woman who has died in Vietnam and are in contact with the local authorities.”
A video posted on social media just two weeks before their deaths showed the couple celebrating their engagement.
Videography company Red Eye Studios shared the announcement on Instagram, where both Otteson and Quinton appeared joyful and excited for their future together.
Friends and family have expressed their shock and grief over the loss of the couple, with tributes pouring in online.
Otteson’s social media profiles reflect her vibrant personality and her passion for travel, while Quinton was known for his music and engaging livestreams.
The case has shocked the local community in Hoi An, a popular tourist destination in central Vietnam. The quiet and peaceful town is typically known for its historical charm and relaxed atmosphere, making the deaths all the more distressing for both locals and visitors.
As the investigation continues, authorities are looking into all possible angles, including toxicological tests to determine if any substances were involved in the deaths.
The family of the couple, who are devastated by the loss, have requested privacy while they wait for more information from the ongoing investigation.
The tragic deaths of Otteson and Quinton highlight the importance of investigating all aspects of unexplained fatalities, especially when foreign nationals are involved.
The UK Foreign Office is expected to continue supporting the bereaved family as they navigate this difficult time, with hopes that further details will soon emerge from the investigation.
