A well-respected teacher in Elgin, Oklahoma, has died following a protracted illness that her family attributes to a drink served at a local restaurant. According to the family of Holly Hill, the incident began in February 2023 when she consumed what they say was a “poisoned” margarita at Hacienda Las Margaritas Bar & Grill in Elgin.
On Valentine’s Day 2023, Hill and her husband reportedly visited the restaurant to celebrate. Family members contend that the second margarita she drank that evening contained an industrial-grade degreaser or similar chemical, causing immediate symptoms: vomiting, burning in the mouth and throat, and a visit to the restroom for rinsing, according to Oklahoma City’s News 9.
Hospitalizations, procedures, and painful recovery
Hill’s family asserts that after the February 2023 event, she never fully recovered. In the weeks and months following the incident, they say Hill experienced severe esophageal and digestive complications, causing multiple hospitalizations, dozens of procedures, and months of painful recovery.
Although detailed medical records have not been publicly released, the family believes these complications directly led to her death in October 2025. Authorities have labeled the death “suspicious,” and the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation (OSBI) is involved.
As of now, the restaurant hasn’t issued a public statement acknowledging responsibility or confirming specifics of the incident. After it happened, however, the restaurant shared on social media, “We have never walked away from responsibility and will continue to support [Hill and her family].”
Community posts claim a settlement was reached between Hill’s legal team and an unnamed party, but it is unconfirmed whether that involves Hacienda Las Margaritas Bar & Grill. Hill is remembered by coworkers as a dedicated teacher, alumna of the school district, and loving wife and mother.
