Three people have died, and 22 others have been hospitalized following exposure to an unknown substance at a home in Mountainair, New Mexico, on Wednesday (May 20). According to Mountainair Mayor Peter Nieto, the incident led to the deaths of three occupants and the hospitalization of numerous first responders.
The situation unfolded when paramedics and sheriff’s deputies responded to a call regarding a suspected drug overdose at a residence on Hanlon Avenue and Pinon Street. Upon arrival, first responders found one person dead outside the home, another inside, and two individuals requiring resuscitation. One of those individuals later died at the hospital, while the other remains under medical observation.
In total, 18 first responders and one occupant were transported to the University of New Mexico Hospital for decontamination and evaluation. New Mexico State Police reported that responders experienced symptoms such as nausea and dizziness, and two remain in serious condition.
Albuquerque Fire Rescue’s Hazmat teams are working to identify the substance, which they believe was transmitted through contact rather than airborne. Officials have secured the area and confirmed no threat to the public. While the cause of the exposure remains under investigation, early indications suggest narcotics may be involved.
Mayor Nieto emphasized the ongoing challenges of addiction and substance abuse, calling for community support and education to address these issues. As the investigation continues, residents are urged to avoid the area and keep affected individuals in their thoughts.
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