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Mom Dies at 30 After Drinking Poisoned Margarita in Tragic Incident at Elgin Restaurant

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Holly Hill, 30, tragically passed away two years after ingesting a poisoned margarita at Hacienda Las Margaritas Bar & Grill. Learn more about her courageous battle with health complications and her family’s ongoing fight for justice.

A heartbreaking tragedy has struck the Hill family as Holly Hill, a 30-year-old mother of three, passed away on October 23, 2025, after a years-long battle with severe health complications caused by ingesting a poisoned margarita.

Holly’s story began on Valentine’s Day, 2023, when she and her husband, Brandon, visited Hacienda Las Margaritas Bar & Grill in Elgin, Oklahoma. After taking a sip of what she thought was a regular margarita, Holly immediately felt her mouth “on fire” and began vomiting. It was soon discovered that the drink contained industrial-strength degreaser, a dangerous chemical that caused severe injuries to her esophagus.

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A Year of Medical Struggles and Dozens of Surgeries

The mom said she ingested one 'swallow' of the deadly cocktail (Facebook)
The mom said she ingested one ‘swallow’ of the deadly cocktail (Facebook)

Despite her best efforts to recover, Holly’s injuries were life-changing. The chemical burns left a hole in her esophagus, leading to months of painful treatments. Holly required dozens of surgeries, including an ongoing series of procedures to repair the damage caused by the toxic substance.

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Her mother, Kelly Hunter, recalled Holly’s strength as she continued to teach and care for her family during this difficult time. “It’s changed my life, to say the least,” Holly wrote on Facebook. “I continue to pray and believe in my doctor to lead the way through this never-ending journey.”

In October 2025, after undergoing yet another procedure to address the hole in her esophagus, Holly’s health worsened unexpectedly. Despite doctors’ efforts, Holly succumbed to her injuries, leaving behind her husband and three children, aged 6, 11, and 14.

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Holly’s Family Honors Her Memory

The mom had dozens of surgeries in the years since the incident (Facebook)
The mom had dozens of surgeries in the years since the incident (Facebook)

In the wake of Holly’s passing, her family has paid tribute to her bravery, perseverance, and love. An obituary published by her family described her as a “passionate teacher” and a “proud mom,” stating, “Through countless procedures, hospital stays, and uncertain days, Holly faced each challenge with courage, faith, and a quiet strength that inspired everyone around her.”

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A GoFundMe set up by a family friend honors Holly’s memory and helps support her family. The page reads: “After 2 1/2 years of battling complications from ingesting industrial cleaner that had been served to her in a margarita, she succumbed to her injuries.”

Holly Leaves Behind a Loving Family

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Holly is survived by her husband, Brandon Hill, and their three children, as well as her parents, siblings, and numerous friends. Her family described her as “an amazing woman, daughter, wife, and mother” who fought tirelessly to survive.

Holly leaves behind the 'love of her life', Brandon, and her three children (Facebook)
Holly leaves behind the ‘love of her life’, Brandon, and her three children (Facebook)

The family is now focusing on raising awareness and seeking justice for what happened. Holly’s mother, Kelly, emphasized the devastating impact the incident had on their lives. “It’s heartbreaking, but we take comfort in knowing she’s finally resting.”

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Investigation Underway: Questions Remain About the Incident

Following Holly’s death, Elgin Police Department, in collaboration with the Comanche County District Attorney, confirmed they had contacted the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation. An “initial inquiry” has been launched to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident, Chief Ralph Parsons said.

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As of now, the family is awaiting further updates as the investigation continues. In the meantime, donations to support Holly’s family can be made through the GoFundMe page.

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