A mother of three tragically passed away two years after drinking a laced margarita at a restaurant.
Holly Hill, a 30-year-old beloved third-grade teacher from Elgin, Oklahoma, died on October 23, 2025, from complications related to a horrific incident that occurred on Valentine's Day in 2023, when she was served a margarita laced with industrial cleaner at Hacienda Las Margaritas Bar & Grill.
According to Hill’s mother, Kelly Hunter, Holly immediately sensed something was wrong after taking a sip of the drink.
“Her mouth was on fire, and she knew something wasn’t right,” Hunter recalled, per News9. “She immediately jumped up and ran to the bathroom, started throwing up, started rinsing her mouth out with water.”
The drink, which Hill later learned contained industrial cleaner, caused severe chemical burns to her esophagus. Hill spent the following weeks and months in and out of emergency rooms, enduring numerous medical procedures as she struggled with the ongoing damage to her throat.
Despite her health challenges, she continued to work as a teacher and care for her family during this difficult time.
Family Files Lawsuit, Settlement Reached
Hill’s family filed a civil lawsuit against the restaurant, which was settled in 2023, according to KFox14.
In the aftermath of the incident, the teacher underwent multiple medical procedures in an effort to heal. On October 17, doctors had noted some progress, with Hill’s esophagus showing signs of healing, though it was still a long road ahead.
Tragically, just days later, Hill experienced severe complications that ultimately led to her death.
Investigation Into the Restaurant and Death
The Elgin Police Department, in collaboration with the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation (OSBI), has initiated an inquiry into the circumstances surrounding her death.
"The OSBI will initiate an initial inquiry into this matter and will be assisted by the Elgin Police Department," Acting Police Chief Ralph Parsons stated in an update. “The OSBI will be the lead agency in this matter."
The restaurant has not publicly commented on the investigation, though it previously issued an apology on social media, expressing regret over the incident.
Family Seeks Justice and Accountability
Hill’s mother has expressed her desire for justice, saying, “The number one thing that we really want at this point, and out of this, is we want people to be aware of what happened at that restaurant and to quit supporting them. We want them to be held accountable for taking my daughter’s life; because they did. It might have been a long fight, but ultimately, they are the cause."
Hill, who was remembered for dedication as a teacher, leaves behind her husband and three children. Her obituary reflects the incredible strength she displayed during her battle with her injuries: “Through fighting to survive countless procedures, hospital stays, and uncertain days, she met each challenge with courage, faith, and a quiet strength that inspired everyone around her."
"Holly will be remembered for her kindness, her bright smile, and the way she made every child feel seen and loved. She had a gift for spreading warmth - in her classroom, at home, and anywhere she went. To know Holly was to know compassion, laughter, and love," they added.
Our thoughts are with Hill's loved ones at this time.