A 30-year-old mother-of-three, Holly Hill, tragically passed away two years after consuming a margarita allegedly contaminated with industrial cleaner during a Valentine’s Day date in 2023 at Hacienda Las Margaritas, a Mexican bar in Elgin, Oklahoma.
Holly’s mother, Kelly Hunter, recounted that moments after sipping the drink, Holly ran to the bathroom, vomiting and feeling her mouth “on fire,” realizing something was seriously wrong. The chemical reportedly caused severe damage to her throat and oesophagus, requiring multiple medical procedures and tube feeding over the next two years.
Despite ongoing treatment, Holly’s condition worsened following a surgery last week, and she died after complications arose. Tributes from her school, Elgin Public Schools, described Holly as a devoted teacher, mother, and wife who bravely faced a long medical battle while continuing to care for her family.
Holly’s family believes the bar is responsible and filed a lawsuit, which reached a confidential settlement earlier this year. Authorities have now launched a criminal investigation. Acting Elgin Police Chief Ralph Parsons confirmed that the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation will oversee the inquiry, assisted by local police.
Holly’s mother said, “We want them to be held accountable for taking my daughter’s life; they caused this tragedy. People should be aware and reconsider supporting that restaurant.”
