Authorities in Mountainair are investigating a deadly incident involving an unidentified substance that left three people dead and 19 others hospitalized, including several first responders who became ill after arriving at the scene.
According to The Mirror US, law enforcement and emergency crews responded to a residence Wednesday following reports of possible overdoses.
When officials entered the home, they discovered that three of the four occupants had died.
First responders among those hospitalized
Officials said 18 of the 19 people hospitalized were emergency personnel who came into contact with the unknown substance while responding to the scene.
Several responders reportedly experienced symptoms including dizziness and nausea after exposure. Authorities confirmed that two emergency personnel were initially listed in critical condition.
Medical officials later said many of the affected individuals who showed no symptoms had been released, while three patients with symptoms remained under observation Wednesday evening.
Others who reportedly experienced symptoms included EMTs from Torrance County and nursing staff at the University of New Mexico Hospital who treated individuals connected to the incident.
What investigators believe so far
Authorities stressed that the incident appears isolated to the residence and does not pose a public danger.
“There is currently no threat to the public. A secure perimeter has been established, and the affected area remains limited to the residence,” officials said in a statement.
The New Mexico State Police is leading the active investigation.
Officer Wilson Silver said investigators currently believe the mystery substance may spread through physical contact rather than through the air. “At this time, investigators believe the substance may be transmitted through contact and do not believe it to be airborne,” Silver said.
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Narcotics may have played a role
Mountainair Mayor Peter Nieto suggested narcotics were connected to the residence involved in the incident.
“The reality is that addiction and substance abuse are issues affecting communities all across our state and nation,” Nieto said in a social media statement.
“There is no simple or immediate solution. Lasting change requires family support, accountability, education, and most importantly, individuals who are willing to accept help.”
The mayor also noted that public works officials had ruled out carbon monoxide and natural gas exposure as possible causes. Meanwhile, hazmat units from Albuquerque Fire Rescue continued assisting investigators as officials worked to determine the exact nature of the substance involved.
