3 People Horrifically Killed in Chemically Filled Hole in TX

3 people horrifically died after falling into a hole filled with chemicals while hunting in Bastrop County.

HUNTING TRIP TURNED DEADLY

4 people including, 26-year-old Denise Martinez, 37-year-old Delvys Garcia, and 45-year-old Noel Vigil-Benitez never would have foreseen how one hunting trip in Bastrop County could end.

According to reports, while out hunting, the group suddenly ran through a cornfield after one of their dogs fell into an open cistern. In an attempt to rescue the dog, one person in the group may have jumped into the cistern to rescue the dog. 

UNEXPECTED DANGEROUS CONDITIONS

However, the situation instantly escalated and it seems 2 other people in the group jumped into the cistern to possibly rescue the first person who had just jumped in. 

Meanwhile, the fourth person in the group ran to his truck to call 9-1-1. Emergency crews arrived around 1 a.m. to find no signs of life in the cistern. First Responders initially refused to go inside because of incredibly dangerous conditions.

The cistern appeared to be filled halfway with water however, there were very strong fumes, similar to those of a septic tank, coming from the cistern. 

GREENLIGHTING THE RECOVERY EFFORT

After the fumes were removed, a drone was sent inside to check on the integrity of the cistern walls. After being given the green light, Investigator D. Newman, with the Sheriff’s Office volunteered to make the recovery.

With the support of the Elgin Fire Department and the City of Elgin Utility crews, the Investigator was successfully lowered into the hole, recovering all 3 victims, Denise Martinez, Delvys Garcia, Noel Vigil-Benitez as well as their dog.