30-year-old Oklahoma woman dies 2 years after drinking margarita laced with cleaning product at Mexican restaurant

A woman's life was cut short two years after she sipped a poisoned margarita containing industrial cleaner at a restaurant in Oklahoma. She was a mother-of-3.

Holly Hill, a 30-year-old Oklahoma teacher and mother-of-three, died on October 23, 2025, reportedly due to complications from a margarita she drank at a Mexican restaurant on Valentine's Day in 2023. According to an October 28 Nypost.com report, the margarita contained industrial-strength degreaser, causing severe chemical burns to her oesophagus and requiring several surgeries.

A 30-year-old Oklahoma woman died 2 years after drinking a margarita contaminated with industrial-strength degreaser. (Facebook/Holly Hill)

Holly Hill experienced intense burning

The teacher died from what her family said were complications related to the incident at Hacienda Las Margaritas Bar and Grill – after consuming the drink, Holly immediately experienced intense burning and vomiting. Despite undergoing numerous medical procedures, her condition remained precarious. Just days before her death, doctors reportedly observed signs of healing in her oesophagus, but severe complications ultimately led to her death.

Holly's obituary read: “For the past two and a half years, while continuing to teach and care for her family, Holly faced a long and difficult medical journey. 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. Her perseverance and love were nothing short of remarkable.”

Management of oesophagal burns

According to the US-based National Centre for Biotechnology, the ingestion of caustic substances (such as household cleaners or industrial chemicals) remains a significant social and economic problem, causing acute and chronic injuries to the gastrointestinal and respiratory tracts. The esophagus is particularly vulnerable due to its delicate mucosa, thin wall, and lack of a strong defense system.

Acute vs chronic phase

⦿ Acute phase: Management focuses on the immediate control of tissue damage, preventing perforation, and treating severe complications, such as bleeding or shock. The severity can range from superficial to deep burns with visceral perforation.

⦿ Chronic phase: Management focuses on treating long-term outcomes, primarily stricture (narrowing) and resulting swallowing impairment (dysphagia).

Per National Centre for Biotechnology, urgent treatment involves limiting the burns, sometimes through chemical neutralising drugs if administered within an hour. Perforation caused by extensive necrosis may require surgical resection.

Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.