Three Dead and First Responders Quarantined Following Exposure to Unknown Substance in New Mexico

Three people have died, and nearly 20 first responders are in quarantine after coming into contact with an unidentified substance in a New Mexico home, authorities report.

Incident Details

The New Mexico State Police responded around 11 a.m. to a residence in Mountainair to assist the Torrance County Sheriff’s Office. The situation was initially considered a suspected overdose involving an unknown substance. Inside the residence, four individuals were found unresponsive, with three subsequently pronounced dead, according to a police statement.

First Responders Affected

Eighteen first responders were exposed to the substance and began exhibiting symptoms such as nausea and dizziness. These responders, along with the only surviving resident from the incident, were taken to the University of New Mexico Hospital for quarantine, evaluation, and monitoring. Two of the first responders are in serious condition.

Mountainair Mayor Peter Nieto reported that three of the four EMTs from Mountainair EMS have been discharged from the hospital. EMS Chief Josh Lewis remains hospitalized for further observation, having been the first to enter the residence.

Substance Investigation

Authorities believe the unknown substance is not airborne but could spread through contact. Albuquerque Fire Rescue hazmat teams are working to identify it. A secure perimeter surrounds the residence to ensure public safety.

At this time, we do not know the exact cause, Peter Nieto stated in a Facebook post. Based on the information currently available, all indications are pointing toward narcotics as a possible factor. The investigation is still ongoing, and officials are working carefully to confirm the facts before releasing final conclusions.

Mountainair Public Works confirmed that the incident was not due to carbon monoxide or related to natural gas.

This is a developing story, and updates will be provided as more information becomes available.