MOUNTAINAIR, N.M. (AP) — A deadly incident in New Mexico has claimed three lives and sent 18 emergency responders to the hospital Wednesday following contact with an unknown substance during what authorities initially believed was a drug overdose call.
According to New Mexico State Police, emergency crews discovered four unresponsive individuals at a residence located east of Albuquerque. Three of those people have since died, while the fourth person remains hospitalized in Albuquerque receiving treatment.
The situation became more complex when 18 emergency personnel who responded to the scene came into contact with the unidentified substance and developed concerning symptoms, including feelings of nausea and dizziness. Medical teams transported all affected first responders to the University of New Mexico Hospital, where they remain under quarantine while doctors monitor their condition.
Officer Wilson Silver with New Mexico State Police reported that two of the emergency responders are currently listed in serious condition.
Specialized hazardous materials teams from Albuquerque Fire Rescue have been deployed to the scene in Mountainair, a rural area east of Albuquerque, working to determine the identity of the dangerous substance.
“At this time, investigators believe the substance may be transmitted through contact and do not believe it to be airborne,” Silver said.
Local officials in Mountainair have assured residents that the public faces no danger and have established a safety perimeter around the affected residence.
