3 dead in New Mexico and first responders treated for exposure to unknown substance, officials say

Three people found unresponsive inside a rural New Mexico home died, while a fourth was treated in Albuquerque. First responders were called to a suspected drug overdose east of Albuquerque in Mountainair. During the response, 18 first responders were exposed to an unidentified substance and developed symptoms including nausea and dizziness. All were transported to the University of New Mexico Hospital for monitoring, with two in serious condition. Hazmat teams assisted in identifying the substance. Investigators believed the substance may be transmitted through contact and was not airborne. A perimeter was set up around the home, and officials said there was no threat to the public. The mayor cited addiction and substance abuse as ongoing community issues requiring support, accountability, education, and help-seeking.

"New Mexico State Police said three of the four people who were found unresponsive inside the home east of Albuquerque died. The fourth was being treated at a hospital in Albuquerque. During the response, authorities said, 18 first responders were exposed to the substance and began experiencing symptoms including nausea and dizziness. All of the first responders were transported to the University of New Mexico Hospital, where they were being monitored."

"“At this time, investigators believe the substance may be transmitted through contact and do not believe it to be airborne,” Silver said. While the investigation was ongoing, Mountainair Mayor Peter Nieto said in a social media post that all indications were pointing toward narcotics as a possible factor. He added that there was no threat to the public and that a perimeter had been set up around the home."

"Albuquerque Fire Rescue Hazmat teams were assisting at the scene in Mountainair, a rural community east of Albuquerque, in efforts to identify the substance involved. Two of the first responders were listed in serious condition, said Officer Wilson Silver with New Mexico State Police. Residents, however, took to social media to voice their frustrations about drug use in the community and elsewhere."

"“But the reality is that addiction and substance abuse are issues affecting communities all across our state and nation,” Nieto said. “There is no simple or immediate solution. Lasting change requires family support, accountability, education, and most importantly, individuals who are willing to accept help.”"

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